Asteral signs up to ultrasound framework

ASTERAL has been appointed to a new national framework for the supply, management and maintenance of ultrasound equipment. The NHS Shared Business Service (SBS) framework removes the need for trusts to go through the lengthy OJEU procurement process and provides more competitive pricing. It covers all general, cardiac, obstetric and gynaecological and breast screening equipment.

Jason Long, business development manager at Asteral, which is a leading provider of managed equipment service (MES) and managed maintenance service (MMS) contracts, said: "The framework will provide a valuable service to NHS trusts as they seek to deliver efficiencies while enhancing the standard of patient care." Kevin Pritchard, director of strategic sourcing at NHS SBS, added: "We are delighted to be able to support NHS trusts in their procurement of high-quality ultrasound machines from suppliers who demonstrate they meet the stringent criteria of value for money, product and service quality and assurance of supply." The framework will run until 8 March 2013, with a further option to extend to 8 March 2015.