Case studies

National Clinical Staffing Locum Doctors Preferred Supplier List (PSL)

NHS Workforce Alliance partner, East of England NHS Collaborative Procurement Hub, have worked closely for several years with a focus on the supply of locum doctors via the National Clinical Staffing Framework Comprising of Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust, Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, this regional collaboration endeavoured to control and standardise rates through a common approach to the market via a contracted Preferred Supplier List (PSL).

The alliance presented the trusts with potential operating models based on collated data and market information then coordinated and facilitated group discussions until a universally beneficial approach was agreed and implemented. The Hub implemented a new contract, which includes role specific rate caps and bespoke Key Performance Indicators (in order to manage the performance of the awarded preferred suppliers). We facilitated a rolling contract management programme with periodic performance review, supplier meetings and provided ad-hoc support.

Through a common collaborative approach, regular open communications and support, the East Midlands Mental Health Network maintains a rationalised supply base and improved framework compliance whilst benefitting from an increased awareness of market conditions, facilitating more informed decisions.