NHS shifts to value-led medical technology decisions

Gov UK highlighted the Government’s Plan for Change; set to transform the way the NHS invests in medical technology (medtech). Instead of focusing on the lowest upfront price, the new guidance encourages Trusts to consider patient outcomes, overall value for money, and the effect on waiting lists.

This approach aims to boost productivity and enhance patient safety. With the NHS spending around £10 billion on medtech each year, many past decisions prioritised initial cost rather than proven clinical effectiveness. By concentrating on long-term value, the updated guidance helps ensure safer care for patients and staff while also reducing future expenses, including warranty-related costs. Health Minister Zubir Ahmed summed up the ambition: “Our Plan for Change is boosting NHS productivity and making sure every pound of taxpayer money works harder for patients than ever before.”

Early signs of impact

Some Trusts are already demonstrating the benefits of this new approach:

• Productivity across Acute Trusts increased by 2.7% last year, surpassing the Government’s 2% target.
• Barts Health NHS Trust reported that using innovative infection-reducing mesh saved approximately £1,000 per patient per year, totalling £103,000 in annual savings.
• Trials at University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust showed that remote monitoring technology cut hospital admissions by 43% while freeing up clinical staff time.

Remaining challenges

Despite these positive results, uptake of new technologies remains cautious. Many Trusts continue to focus on initial costs and are uncertain which patients will benefit most, making it harder to justify investment. The high per-patient cost of certain innovations, such as £500–£600 for remote monitoring devices, adds another layer of caution. In addition, the lack of standardised guidance has created difficulties for suppliers, slowing adoption.

Even with the introduction of new procurement rules, Trusts still require practical mechanisms to implement innovations quickly while managing budgets and long-term risks effectively.

Leasing offers a practical solution

Leasing offers a practical solution. Rather than paying the full cost upfront, Trusts can spread their investment over the life of the equipment. This approach allows them to gain access to cutting‑edge technology sooner, make procurement decisions that prioritise patient outcomes over short‑term budget constraints, and reduce financial exposure while avoiding being tied into obsolete equipment.

At Procurement Services Leasing we can help you achieve this through our Lease Advisory Service:

1.      Lease vs Purchase Analysis – Clear comparisons to help Trusts choose the best option based on value, outcomes, and long-term savings.

2.      Capital Planning – Identify funding gaps and plan effectively using dynamic tools for smarter investment decisions.

3.      Accountancy Changes – Expert guidance on IFRS 16 and budget strategies to optimise capital and revenue use.

4.      Negotiation Expertise – We secure favourable terms through strong market insight and trusted relationships.

5.      New Lease Procurement – Simplified, compliant processes with mini-competitions to get the best deal quickly.

In addition to our Lease Advisory Service, the NHS can also access our Financial Leasing Solutions framework – a fully compliant, pre-approved route to competitively priced leasing options for a wide range of assets. Our framework supports Trusts in securing funding for cutting-edge medical equipment that transforms patient care.

To find out more, contact us at psleasing@csltd.org.uk.