Procurement
From product to process: driving whole-system gains Ultimately, procurement does not operate in a vacuum. To maximise its impact, it must be connected to broader sustainability efforts, from decarbonising supply chains to adopting circular economy principles. Clinical product choices also need to be given the attention that correlates with the opportunity. Compared to large-scale green infrastructure projects, like fleet electrification or hospital retrofits, optimising wound care and continence management is low-cost, low- disruption, and high-impact. It offers a route to rapid carbon reduction without requiring a complete system overhaul. In short, it’s a win-win. Smarter product use means better care, lower costs, and reduced environmental footprint.
Practical guidance for procurement leads For those leading procurement, sustainability, or clinical operations within NHS Trusts, aligning environmental goals with care imperatives isn’t just a strategic challenge; it’s an operational one. Delivering impact requires more than aligning philosophies; it demands clear actions that can be embedded into day-to-day processes.
Broaden the evaluation metrics We need to shift the evaluation framework, moving beyond unit cost comparisons and introducing metrics that assess whole-product value - including staff time, patient outcomes, waste generation, and carbon footprint. Embedding these metrics into procurement processes allows teams to make choices that serve clinical, financial, and sustainability objectives simultaneously, not sequentially.
Tailor product selection by need Next, we need to tailor product selection based on clinical need, while avoiding blanket mandates to switch to reusables or to stick with disposables. Instead, we should assess patient cohorts to determine where reusable products - such as compression garments - can be adopted safely and effectively, and where disposable options remain critical. This approach safeguards patient dignity and clinical outcomes, while allowing sustainability gains to emerge organically.
Support patient-enabled care Procurement teams should also champion solutions that enable care outside traditional clinical settings. Products that empower patients or carers to manage aspects of their
With the right tools, evidence, and intent,
a more sustainable healthcare system isn’t a distant goal – it’s a practical, achievable next step for a critical part of our society’s infrastructure.
References 1.
https://www.england.nhs.uk/long-read/ green-plan-guidance/
treatment where appropriate can reduce pressure on frontline staff, improve adherence, and create a more resilient care model.
Build collaborative supplier relationships Collaboration with suppliers must go beyond commercial engagements. Healthcare organisations need to prioritise partnerships with manufacturers who provide not only sustainable products, but also the education, usage data, and post-implementation support to ensure their benefits are realised in practice. Strong supplier relationships help embed innovation across multiple departments, from procurement to ward level.
Track, learn, and scale Finally, we need to measure and communicate progress. Healthcare organisations need to establish KPIs that track product performance, patient outcomes, and sustainability metrics. Use these insights to refine decisions, demonstrate impact, and foster confidence across the organisation. Transparent reporting creates momentum - and builds a compelling case for scaling successful approaches. By integrating these actions into
procurement strategy, Trusts can deliver on their environmental commitments without compromising patient safety - and without waiting for large-scale system transformation. This is about making sustainability operational, measurable, and above all, clinically credible.
Building a future where sustainability and safety align We understand that real change doesn’t come from products alone, but procuring the right solutions makes a big difference. It comes from a shift in mindset - one that recognises that some of the most effective sustainability interventions start with everyday procurement decisions. By prioritising long-term value over short-term outlays, healthcare leaders can create meaningful, lasting impact.
About the author
Karen McNamara is Business Director at global hygiene and health company Essity, where she leads the Health and Medical division of the company for the UK and Ireland. With over 30 years of experience in the healthcare sector, Karen has held diverse roles spanning Marketing, Contracts, Product Innovation, and Communication, including international assignments based in Sweden. Throughout her career, she has been
a passionate advocate for Value-Based Procurement (VBP), championing the use of high-quality medical products that improve patient outcomes and reduce long-term healthcare costs.
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2.
https://www.uhsussex.nhs.uk/news/ innovative-green-project-is-cutting- waste-and-boosting-realism-in-clinical- training/#:~:text=Every%20year%2C%20 NHS%20produce%20more,disposed%20and%20 become%20clinical%20waste.
3.
https://www.essity.com/Images/Essity%20 case%20study%20leads%20to%20NHS%20 changing%20its%20procurement%20criteria_ tcm339-199386.pdf
4.
https://www.supplychain.nhs.uk/ programmes/value-based-procurement/
*DISCLAIMER The patient treatment plan utilising compression bandaging is indicated following an in-depth patient assessment and diagnosis. The frequency of bandage changes per week varies. The reported average is two to three times per week. During the decongestion stage for lymphoedema management bandage changes may be required daily.
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