Defence Medical Services (DMS) undertake a comprehensive pathological sample analysis using a framework of services provided wholly by local National Health Service Pathology Services (NHSPS). Permanent overseas locations and those on deployed operations will have reduced laboratory support and as such there is a need to refer some samples to UK facilities in order to support medical needs.

Briefly, a Contractor is required to: undertake same day collection and transportation of all samples from the nominated disembarkation point to the Contractor’s testing facilities;

Undertake analysis of all suitable specimens;

Provide technical advice to Authority with respect to haematology, clinical chemistry, microbiology and cellular pathology issues, as required, via an appropriate on-call pathologist/clinical scientist/biomedical scientist, and;

Meet turnaround times for providing the results for specimens in accordance with Royal College of Pathologists Key Performance Indicators.

The Authority has a requirement for the provision of Pathology Specimen Service for Overseas Bases and Operations. The proposed contract shall be for a period of 2 years commencing 1.12.2018 to 31.12.2020.

The estimated range and numbers of test required over a 12 month period are at Annex D to Schedule 9 of the MOD Conditions for the Provision of Services. It is anticipated the Authority shall require circa 2 200 tests per year. Tests shall be undertaken in accordance with standards including, but not limited to ISO 15189:2012 and ISO 31000:2009/DIS31000.

No business whatsoever is guaranteed under any resulting framework agreement or contract indeed there is no guarantee that any framework agreement or contract will be put in place in relation to this notice. No compensation etc. will be paid if a tender or resulting framework agreement is withdrawn for any reason. Bidders should take part in this process only on the basis that they fully understand and accept this position.