Healthcare recruiter Pulse has been awarded a place on the national framework agreement to supply temporary allied health professionals (AHP) and health science service (HSS) staff to all NHS bodies within the UK.

The contract, giving access to the £96m AHP/HSS market, will run for three years, with a possible extension of a further 12 months.  

Agencies included in the agreement must meet stringent quality standards and are subject to rigorous independent audit by NHS PASA (Purchasing and Supply Agency).

Commenting on the contract, Richard MacMillan, Pulse’s chief executive, says: “It is concerning that there are a number of agencies operating outside the framework that fail to deliver the same level of safety and quality assurance checks that is required of agencies in the agreement.  

“It is essential that patients are confident in the fact that the healthcare professional treating them has been carefully vetted and received the appropriate background checks.  

“By choosing a agency on the framework agreement, NHS Trusts can ensure that only competent and qualified staff are responsible for the treatment of patients.”