The telecare, telehealth and telecoaching framework agreement is for two years, (with the option of two further one year extensions) and replaces the previous telecare framework agreement from NHS Purchasing and Supply Agency (PASA). It also forms a key part of the Department of Health's vision of building a strong telecare infrastructure across the UK, outlined in last month's Government White Paper.

The Yorkshire-based telehealthcare company now has the go-ahead to expand its role as the leading provider of products and services that support people to remain living independently at home and avoid the need for residential or hospital care.

Managed by Buying Solutions, the framework agreement provides a simplified procurement process that meets the European legislative requirements of public sector organisations with nationally negotiated pricing and pre-agreed terms and conditions. It also gives access to an electronic catalogue of telecare and telehealth solutions, and removes the need for separate tendering or procurement arrangements saving time whilst offering best value.

Tunstall Healthcare is one of only six organisations that have received the award to supply products and services within all six Lots of the framework agreement including, Telecare Products, Telecare Services, Telehealth Products, Telehealth Services, Telecoaching Products and Services and Managed Services. As a result, Tunstall is well placed to offer its public sector customers a wide range of products and services to suit their individual and specific requirements.

Jon Lowe, Tunstall's UK managing director said: "I'm delighted that Tunstall has been awarded the framework agreement and look forward to working with our customers to expand the services they offer. The award comes at a time when public sector organisations are looking to deliver more services with fewer resources and embedding telehealthcare solutions is a proven way of delivering such outcomes. Tunstall's position within all six Lots means we are extremely well placed to work in partnership with our customers and Buying Solutions to help them meet the Government's challenging targets."

Telehealthcare is increasingly used to support older people and those with long-term conditions such as COPD and asthma, enabling them to live safely and securely at home for longer and reducing avoidable admissions to hospitals and residential care facilities.

Related news articles:

• Tunstall's Profile

About Tunstall
Tunstall Healthcare Group is the market leading provider of telehealthcare solutions, with over 2.5 million users globally. Tunstall's solutions support older people and those with long-term needs, to live independently, by effectively managing their health and well-being. Tunstall provides technology, expertise and advice to millions of people enabling them to lead independent more fulfilling lives. For more information on how telehealthcare can improve quality of life, visit www.tunstallhealth.com.

About Buying Solutions
Buying Solutions is the national procurement partner for all UK public services and is part of the Efficiency and Reform Group within the Cabinet Office.

Its role is to deliver best value for customers in central government and the wider public sector through the efficient procurement and supply of essential goods and services.

Buying Solutions saves its customers time, money and effort by providing access to trusted, compliant, and sustainable procurement solutions, which deliver measurable savings, value for money and peace of mind.