Health and social work services

Tender description

A strategic review of Non-Emergency Patient Transport Services (NEPTS) across South Yorkshire is under-way. The aim is to go to full OJEU compliant tender after the review has been completed and recommendations have been approved by the relevant boards once the Clinical Commissioning Groups have had an opportunity to complete a full review and draft a comprehensive and relevant specification. The time scales for this will be published in subsequent publications. Improving access to healthcare and reducing health inequalities are key objectives for the Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield Clinical Commissioning Groups. The CCGs are looking to jointly commission Non-Emergency Patient Transport Services. It is part of an integrated care programme and covers patient transportation to and from a variety of appointment types and locations. To meet the varying clinical needs of the patient the provider will provide fit for purpose vehicle types and levels of care suitable for the patient's needs. NEPTS will be provided for non-emergency patients in accordance with guidelines set nationally and local eligibility criteria which are based on national guidance but shaped to reflect local requirements. The Provider(s) is responsible for delivering an appropriate, dignified and safe NEPTS to patients, making sure all patients who use the service are eligible and patients are able to travel to and from the community or acute healthcare setting in a timely manner, without adverse impact on their medical condition. Non-Emergency Patient Transport Services will be delivered in line with the following principles: — Quality: The NEPTS will improve access to healthcare for eligible patients. The Provider will ensure that patients are transported in a legal, safe, friendly, dignified, clean and comfortable environment by appropriately qualified staff. — Flexible and Responsive: The NEPTS will be a flexible service that can meet, grow and respond to the changing needs and locations of the South Yorkshire healthcare environment. — Communication and Performance: The NEPTS Provider will undertake regular and effective communication with all parties and support or feed into strategic planning of individual NHS healthcare providers where appropriate. The Provider will understand its position and minimise its own impact on the financial efficiency of both community and acute healthcare. — Value for Money: The NEPTS will be cost-effective to Commissioners and the taxpayer. The provider will be responsible for applying eligibility criteria strictly and equitably to ensure resources are being delivered to those with the greatest need. — Innovation and Information Technology: The NEPTS Provider will use innovation and maximise information technology to drive value for money. — Sustainability: The NEPTS Provider will plan and manage patient journeys to maximise efficiency and minimize their carbon footprint. All subsequent documentation will be published through this eTendering portal https://www.nhssourcing.co.uk website.