Enhanced Imaging Referral Service Contract - NHS Bristol, North Somerset, South Gloucestershire

NHS Bristol, North Somerset, South Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board (ICB) is awarding a time-limited contract for the provision of an Enhanced Imaging Referral Service. This service addresses the current limitation where community optometrists cannot attach retinal images from optical coherence tomography (OCT) scans to referrals, requiring all patients to attend face-to-face appointments at University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust. The Enhanced Imaging Referral Service provides a digital solution that enables the secure transfer of imaging data alongside referrals, allowing clinical triage without mandatory hospital visits. This evidence-based pathway improves patient outcomes, reduces unnecessary secondary care appointments, and shifts appropriate care closer to patients in primary care settings. The service operates as an integrated end-to-end pathway across primary and secondary care, utilizing the expertise of optometrists while ensuring sustainable healthcare delivery. This contract extends a successful pilot scheme and will run from 1st July 2026 to 31st March 2027, with a total value of £35,000 (ex VAT). The direct award approach maintains service continuity while a subsequent competitive procurement led by University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust will establish the refreshed long-term service model. The standstill period begins from this notice publication, with representations required by midnight on 30th June 2026.