Medical imaging services

Tender description

Provide a managed integrated picture archiving and communication system (iPACS) for the handling, display, storage, retrieval, archiving and communication of radiological images in Saolta University Health Care Group (UHG, Merlin Park, Roscommon). A contract was put in place in 2004 — the main reason for this proposed extension, is, with the formation of the HSE, the strategy of a regional approach to radiology systems changed to a national approach. In this regard, the national platform is being developed and is being implemented across the HSE. However, it will take another 5 years before it is implemented in Galway-Roscommon. To ensure continuity of safe radiology imaging services for patients and with regard to, technical considerations, financial implications and the roll-out of the national platform, it is not practical to run a tender process for this requirement. The HSE intends to vary/extend an existing contract under Article 32b as the National Program (NIMIS) will not be available to GUH for a number of years, there is a requirement to extend the service provision as delivered under the managed service with an expected end date of December 2024. The existing contract with Agfa in Galway needs to be extended by negotiation to ensure continuity of safe radiology imaging services for patients. Extending the contract with the original supplier allows for equipment replacement without the problems of incompatibility and technical integration that would arise with a change of supplier. As the equipment has a working life of 5 years, the intended contract extension is to maximise the value being offered to the exchequer.