Team Medic on NHS SBS Framework for Patient Transport

Nine months ago, we made a decision that would test everything we had as a company.

We applied to join the NHS Shared Business Services Framework. Not because it was easy. Not because we had spare capacity. But because we believed we could make a real difference to patient transport across the NHS.

On the 29th of September 2025, the framework was officially launched.

Team Medic is now an approved supplier on the NHS SBS Transportation and Travel Services for Health Framework. And honestly? We’re still processing it.

What this actually means

The NHS SBS Framework supports over 11 million non-emergency patient journeys every year. These aren’t just numbers. They’re people getting to chemotherapy appointments. Older patients making it to dialysis. Children reaching specialist clinics.

Now we get to be part of that system.

For NHS organisations, this framework cuts through months of procurement red tape. Instead of running expensive tenders, they can commission pre-approved providers like us directly. It saves time. It saves money. And most importantly, it gets patients where they need to be, faster.

The reality of getting here

I won’t pretend this was some smooth, professional process where we ticked boxes and submitted forms.

It was brutal.

We passed complex compliance checks covering everything from insurance policies to cyber security. Aligning our internal systems with NHS standards took serious coordination and grit. Then came the national pitch process, a beast of its own. Honestly, it felt like defending a PhD thesis.

There were nights when I questioned whether we’d make it. Weekends disappeared into spreadsheets and policy documents. Our team pushed harder than I’ve ever seen them push.

But here’s the thing. We never stopped believing this mattered.

Why patient transport is a bigger deal than most people think

Here’s a stat that stops me cold every time I see it: 8 million missed NHS appointments every year.

That’s £1.2 billion in wasted costs. But worse than the money? It’s the delayed diagnoses. The deteriorating conditions. The people who just give up trying to access care.

And transport issues? They’re behind nearly half of those missed appointments.

Think about that. We have brilliant doctors, cutting-edge treatments, and a health service that’s there for everyone. But if people can’t physically get through the door, none of it matters.

That’s what we’re trying to fix.

What this means for the people we work with

If you’re in NHS procurement, you can now access Team Medic through direct award or mini-competition under reference SBS10513. No lengthy tender process required.

If you’re running a hospital or trust, we can help with discharge bottlenecks, bed pressures, and the constant juggling act of moving patients safely and efficiently. For example, we know winter brings unique pressures to NEPTS, and we’re equipped to handle those peaks.

If you’re a patient or family member, this means more reliable journeys, less waiting around, and hopefully a bit more dignity in what’s often a stressful experience.

And if you care about the environment, they’re prioritising local providers and low-emission vehicles to support the NHS’s net zero targets.

The numbers behind the framework

The NHS SBS Framework isn’t just about logistics. It’s about solving real problems:

11 million patient journeys enabled every year
8 million missed appointments that we’re trying to prevent
£1.2 billion in costs that could be better spent on actual care
70% of suppliers are SMEs, keeping money in local economies
Services covering mental health, bariatric, paediatric, palliative and end-of-life care

If you’re concerned about the pitfalls of monopoly in NEPTS, this framework’s structure gives more choice and control to local commissioners.

What happens next

We’re not treating this as a finish line. If anything, it’s the starting gun.

We’ve spent nine months proving we’re good enough. Now we need to spend the next nine months proving we’re worth it.

If you’re working in healthcare and you’re frustrated with transport providers who don’t quite get it, let’s talk. We’re a regional provider working to national standards. We might not have all the answers, but we’re committed to finding them with you.

Your questions answered

What is the NHS SBS Framework?

It’s a procurement tool that lets NHS organisations access approved transport providers without running full tenders. It’s faster, simpler, and more cost-effective.

Why does transport matter so much?

Because amazing healthcare is pointless if people can’t reach it. Transport barriers cost lives and waste billions every year.

How do NHS organisations work with you?

Through direct award or mini-competition under reference SBS10513. We’ll walk you through the process.

Can you handle complex cases?

Yes. We’re trained and equipped for mental health transfers, palliative care, neonatal transport, and bariatric services.

Where do you operate?

We’re a regional provider working to national standards. Get in touch to check if we cover your area.

A final thought

Getting onto this framework wasn’t about winning some business award or hitting a company milestone.

It was about earning the right to serve people when they’re at their most vulnerable. When they’re in pain, scared, or just exhausted from navigating a complex system.

We don’t take that lightly.

The next 11 million journeys start now. And we want to make every single one of them count.

Related Reading: