The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), in partnership with NHS England and NHS Supply Chain, is increasing its engagement with the UK MedTech sector. The focus is particularly on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as part of an effort to improve innovation access within the health system and simplify commercial processes for suppliers.
A new MedTech Commercial Strategy is being developed by DHSC and NHS England. This initiative aims to address ongoing challenges in procurement, market access, and the adoption of innovation. The current system has been described as "fragmented and challenging to navigate" for both NHS buyers and suppliers seeking consistent entry points into the health sector.
To ensure that industry perspectives are included in this strategy, suppliers have been invited to provide input through a survey and two upcoming webinars scheduled for 12th February and 10th March. Both sessions will cover identical topics, allowing flexibility for participants. Suppliers are encouraged to complete the DHSC survey by 6 March 2026 to share their views on improving the MedTech procurement process.
According to the announcement: “This is a valuable opportunity for companies of all sizes to influence the future commercial environment and help shape a more streamlined, responsive NHS–industry interface.”
Additionally, DHSC and NHS England will hold a dedicated engagement event for SMEs on 26th February. This session will introduce several initiatives: the new DHSC SME Action Plan; a Health Family SME spend target designed to increase SME participation; and a practical guide titled "Doing business with the health sector," which aims to clarify routes to market, procurement procedures, and buyer expectations.
The goal of these efforts is to make it easier for SMEs to understand how they can engage with the health sector by providing practical information, contacts, and guidance about procurement processes.
“These developments represent a meaningful shift in how government and the NHS intend to collaborate with industry,” according to Chris Whitehouse at Whitehouse Communications. He added that increased transparency, clearer guidance, and early engagement opportunities are intended as steps toward making market access more predictable for medical device suppliers—especially SMEs.
Suppliers interested in expanding their presence within the NHS or introducing new innovations are encouraged to participate in these initiatives so they can contribute directly to shaping future procurement pathways.
