WM5G launches an open health innovation framework designed to accelerate virtual care, diagnostics, and community health services throughout the UK
West Midlands 5G (WM5G) has introduced a new open health innovation framework to accelerate the adoption of virtual care technologies and community diagnostic services across England. This framework offers local authorities, integrated care boards, and healthcare providers streamlined access to innovative solutions, enhancing patient care, service resilience, and access to advanced diagnostics.
What the framework includes
A total of eight lots have been awarded, each valued at up to £4.5 million, with contracts spanning from March 2026 to February 2034. These lots encompass virtual care technology solutions, clinical services for virtual care delivery, diagnostic technology provision, community diagnostic clinical services, and data analytics. The framework has successfully attracted 85 suppliers, including many small and medium-sized businesses.
The Open Framework employs an open procurement process, enabling local authorities and integrated care boards (ICBs) to access the latest technologies, while also enhancing patient access and care quality. Suppliers can bid on specific lots, focusing on their areas of expertise, thereby increasing their chances of winning contracts and delivering solutions tailored to the unique needs of healthcare providers.
Benefits and impact
The framework is expected to accelerate the deployment of virtual care services, enabling patients to receive consultations and monitoring remotely while improving community access to diagnostics. By encouraging participation from a diverse range of suppliers, including SMEs, it fosters innovation and competition, ensuring that health organisations rapidly adopt cutting-edge solutions.
Looking ahead, the framework could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of healthcare delivery in England by facilitating the integration of technologies such as AI-driven diagnostics, remote monitoring, and data analytics. It offers a clear pathway for innovative suppliers to scale their solutions nationally, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes, efficiency, and resilience across the health and social care system.
