London, UK – 2026 will mark a major turning point for NHS procurement, with value-based procurement (VBP) set to be rolled out across NHS England – transforming the way medical technologies are assessed and purchased.
That is the message from health policy lobbyist Chris Whitehouse of Whitehouse Communications, who today confirmed that senior health officials have indicated 2026 will be the year in which value-based procurement moves from policy commitment to delivery.
Under the new approach, medical technologies, devices, products, and consumables will be assessed not solely on price, but on a broader definition of value – including patient outcomes, patient experience, whole-system costs to the NHS, and environmental impact.
“The new VBP approach will ensure that when MedTech products are assessed for procurement, far greater weight is given to outcomes, experience, sustainability and overall value to the health system – rather than simply the lowest price,” said Whitehouse.
“Health ministers have committed to rolling out VBP in ‘early 2026’, and in recent days senior officials at the Department of Health have confirmed that this will be the delivery year.”
Whitehouse added that enthusiasm for VBP extends beyond medical technologies alone.
“Senior officials at NHS England are keen to see value-based procurement adopted across the full range of products purchased by the NHS as soon as practicable. There is also growing interest in adopting similar methodologies in both Scotland and Wales.”
The move is strongly backed by ministers under the government’s 10-year plan for the NHS and its Life Sciences Sector Plan. Proponents argue that VBP will address long-standing flaws in traditional procurement models, improve patient outcomes, reduce system-wide costs, and stimulate growth across the UK life sciences sector.
In response to the forthcoming changes, Whitehouse Communications is offering free briefings and presentations to senior executives of medical technology suppliers, outlining the principles of value-based procurement and the opportunities and challenges it presents.
Companies wishing to arrange a presentation should contact: chris.whitehouse@
