EMIS : Health appointed to NHS GP IT Futures framework

The Framework replaces GP Systems of Choice (GPSoC), the current contractual framework, to supply IT systems and services to the GP market in England. It will commence on 1 January 2020 and, subject to a break option after the first year, is capable of running until 31 March 2023. The Framework will govern the provision of the majority of EMIS Group's clinical IT system-related services to GPs in England.

All suppliers appointed to the Framework will also require separate approval for their products and services to be placed on the Digital Buying Catalogue (the 'Catalogue'). This is the online platform through which clinical IT systems will be procured under GP IT Futures, to allow them to sell their products and services. This is a detailed process to ensure that individual products and GP systems meet strict clinical safety and operational requirements similar to the high standards that the Group's EMIS Web product meets today. EMIS Group is at an advanced stage of this approval process.

The Board views this award of a place on the Framework to EMIS Health as a positive development for the Group. Subject to Catalogue approval, the Group expects it to result in broadly consistent payments for equivalent product capabilities, in line with management's expectations. Payment for the majority of services under GP IT Futures will be according to the number of patients covered, rather than the number of practices served, as is currently the case under GPSoC. In addition, the Framework is expected to offer new opportunities through the broader scope of the Catalogue, which extends beyond core systems to a much wider range of supporting products and services.

Andy Thorburn, Chief Executive Officer of EMIS Group, said: 'We are pleased to have been awarded a place on the new GP IT Futures framework. We are now focused on completing the Catalogue approval process, which should allow EMIS Health to continue providing joined-up technology to the NHS market for years to come, while positioning the Group positively for the future with potential growth opportunities for both EMIS Web and the broader EMIS Group portfolio.'