NHS North West

Setting up a HIEC: the bidding process

HIECs are one of the enabling initiatives of the NHS Next Stage Review. The Department of Health is investing £10 million in the introduction of HIECs across England.

The flexibility of the HIEC model means that we can develop HIECs in ways which are appropriate and specific to our local area.

The role of NHS North West is to work with our partners and contribute to the applications process through:

  • engaging potential HIEC partners in informal discussions
  • confirming and challenging applications at the selection and award stages
  • entering into formal contracts with successful HIEC bidders

Timetable for bidding process

7 May Publication of Prospectus and beginning of the informal dialogue stage
24 July NHS North West Stakeholder event to prompt further dialogue and link partners
July OJEU notice issued
1 September Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ) submitted (through an e-tendering portal)
2 September PQQs assessed by National Steering Group
3 September Assessment passed to host SHAs for confirm and challenge
8 September Applications invited from shortlist
  Sealed bids are submitted electronically
19 October All bids are opened ready for assessment by the National Steering Group
November Results passed to SHA for confirm and challenge, then rankings confirmed by National Steering Group.
December National Awards Panel recommends awards to Ministers and SHAs sign contracts and implement contract management

 If you have any questions for the Department of Health you can ask questions until 1 September through the generic mailbox hiecs@dh.gsi.gov.uk

Useful links