Ireland – Medical imaging services

In summary, the Services comprise the provision of PET and CT imaging services for patients referred by Children's Health Ireland (CHI), predominantly for children and young people up to 18 years of age, with a small number of referrals relating to patients over 18 years of age. CHI anticipates approximately 80 PET CT examinations per annum. This figure is provided for guidance only and does not constitute a guaranteed minimum activity. A proportion of patients referred for PET imaging may require general anaesthesia or deep sedation (circa 5 per cent of patients). Although it is preferred that prospective healthcare facilities can provide this, it is not a mandatory requirement. CHI intends to establish a multi-supplier framework agreement with up to three Service Providers. However, CHI reserves the right to appoint fewer than three providers, including a single provider, where this is considered appropriate following completion of the procurement process. Services will be drawn down on a patient-specific basis. The selection of the Service Provider for an individual referral will be determined by CHI having regard to the clinical requirements of the patient, service availability and capacity, accessibility of the proposed facility, and where appropriate, patient and family preferences. CHI considers ease of access for patients and families to be an important aspect of service delivery and will take account of facility location and accessibility when evaluating tenders and making referral decisions under the framework.