Guidance

Equipment for sickle cell and thalassaemia screening (Withdrawn 14 July 2017)

Published 1 January 2012

This guidance was withdrawn on

Please see Sickle cell and thalassaemia screening: handbook for laboratories for testing algorithms.

© Crown copyright 2012

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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/sickle-cell-and-thalassaemia-screening-equipment-acquisition/equipment-for-sickle-cell-and-thalassaemia-screening

1. The NHS Supply Chain framework agreements

The NHS Supply Chain sets out the 2 equipment procurement agreements for sickle cell and thalassaemia screening:

  • antenatal screening

  • newborn screening

The framework also includes equipment and reagents for the measurement of glycated haemoglobin (Hb A1c), an identifier used for monitoring diabetic patients.

2. Specifications

The equipment and companies have satisfied the specifications stipulated in the tendering process.

None of the equipment on the framework agreement has undergone a formal technical evaluation.

Separating and determining the quantity of haemoglobin variants and fractions varies between analysers.

Laboratories must assure themselves that the analyser they chose is capable of providing accurate and reliable results for all screening specimens they receive.

3. Prices

Each specified supplier has provided a comprehensive breakdown of the prices for different:

  • workload levels
  • combinations of tests

There are various options including leasing and capital purchase.

The frameworks allow laboratories to compare prices and equipment to make a decision about which analyser best suits their requirements.

The individual companies can also supply details of their equipment and prices for the agreement.

The two main advantages of the framework agreement are:

  • laboratories do not have to tender for new equipment
  • comparative prices are available for various workloads

4. Contact

To find further information about equipment procurement, contact your local supplies department, or the NHS Supply Chain pathology buyer:

Jennifer Davidson
Buyer: pathology
NHS Supply Chain
Unit 5 Telford Court
Chester Gates
Dunkirk Trading Estate
Chester CH1 6LT
Tel: 01244 582801

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