On behalf of the four CCGs in South Staffordshire, population circa 620 000, Stafford and Surrounds CCG invite suitable qualified and experienced providers to bid for a contract to deliver direct access adult hearing services for non-complex audiology within community based settings. Complex audiological services and services for children under the age of 18 will not be covered within this contract.

The direct access adult hearing service is aimed at adults (over the age of 18) experiencing difficulties with their hearing to the extent that a GP considers that a hearing assessment and care may be of benefit, including the option of trying hearing aids where clinically appropriate to reduce these difficulties.

The provider will be required to deliver comprehensive patient-centred care in line with national guidance and local requirements.

The CCG is looking to award the service to providers that meet the Any Qualified Provider standards. Activity will be paid on a cost per case basis at a Local Tariff rate (to be published in the specification). There will be no guarantees of volume or payment in the contracts awarded.

The contract duration will be for a period of 3 years with an option to extend for up to a further 12 month period.

This Tender is subject to the Light-Touch Regime as set out in Schedule 3 of the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 (Annex A). Bidders are invited to express an interest in providing this service by email to deborah.boone12@nhs.net and sharon.wilson35@nhs.net no later than 21.10.2016.