Skyguard has been chosen as an approved supplier on the NHS Supply Chain Framework Agreement for Electronic Assistive Technology products.
The framework encompasses a wide range of telehealth products which enable the severely disabled or elderly to live independently in their own homes by making their day to day tasks easier and safer.
Following the conclusion of an OJEU tender process, NHS Supply Chain, acting as agent for NHS Business Services Authority, selected Skyguard’s MySOS device for the personal safety alarms product category.
The keyfob-sized MySOS features GSM and GPS technologies, allowing the user to raise an alarm at the touch of a button whenever and wherever they are. The device can also be configured to call and transmit its location to a nominated carer’s mobile phone, or to Skyguard’s 24/7 incident management centre. Here, trained controllers can view the user’s location on mapping software and information pre registered on their profile, including known medical conditions and medication. As the device features a microphone and speaker, the controllers are also able to listen in and talk to the user. Utilising all of the information available, controllers will follow the user’s emergency escalation procedures, calling the emergency services and/or other nominated contacts. They will stay on the line to both the user and emergency responder, keeping both updated until help has arrived and the user is safe.
Another unique feature of the MySOS allows a carer or nominated contact to request its location by simply sending the device a text message. It will automatically reply with a link to a map that can be opened with a smartphone. This feature is particularly useful for finding dementia and Alzheimer’s suffers who may wander and become lost or disorientated.
The framework, which lasts for two years, with the option to extend a further two years, requires awarded companies to adhere the high standards demanded by the NHS. The tender process evaluated bidders across a number of different areas including customer support, training, business continuity, financial stability, product quality and value for money.
Skyguard’s marketing director, Will Murray, said: “Skyguard is delighted to be awarded onto this framework, which demonstrates our commitment to offering the highest quality products and customer service, while delivering excellent value for money. We already work with more than 100 NHS trusts to protect lone workers and telecare users, but this framework now makes it even easier for the NHS and other healthcare organisations to procure our products.”
Under the framework agreement there are two different methods of supply - Non-Direct, whereby NHS Supply Chain can purchase products and make them available to NHS trusts, private healthcare providers, and government departments and agencies; and Direct products, where buyers enter into a contract directly with the supplier through the framework.