UKHSA Diagnostic and Research Framework (DRF)

The UKHSA Diagnostics and Research Open Framework is the successor to the current UKHSA National Microbiology Framework, and predecessor PHE Public Health Microbiology Framework and will be used to support the UK Health Security Agency’s Diagnostics and Research activities for both day to day and incident response. (Please note that it is the potential surge capacity that accounts for the high maximum value of this framework, not anticipated spend)

The framework is divided into two lots:

Lot One: Diagnostics Goods and Services (products that are UKCA/CE marked or otherwise validated to the required specification), and

Lot Two: Research and development (research products that are not UKCA/CE marked)

The maximum value (ex VAT) of the framework is set at £6.25 billion The value of Lot 1 is estimated as £5.2b and the value of Lot 2 is estimated as £1.05b. The actual values will vary based on the level of purchasing necessary to provide suitable solutions to the UK’s health protection needs. The maximum value is based on the potential total amount payable exclusive of VAT as estimated by UKHSA, including any potential extension options for call-off contracts. This figure allows for the possibility that a health emergency may occur, such as a pandemic; therefore, the total value of cumulative call-off contracts may be less depending on the potential materialisation of health threats. The value and explanation of how it has been estimated is given in good faith as a guide. It should not be interpreted as an undertaking to purchase any goods or services to any value and does not form part of the Contract.