NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS) has launched its latest Respiratory Therapy Solutions framework agreement.

The framework will enable organisations to quickly acquire essential equipment like non‑invasive ventilators, sleep therapy devices and airway clearance systems.

Respiratory diseases affect one in five people in England and are the third biggest cause of death nationally. They cost they NHS £11 billion annually.

Hospital admissions for lung disease have risen at three times the rate of all admissions.

The framework agreement includes remote monitoring to manage conditions, home re-supply and compliance reporting.

Council-run care homes, local authorities, emergency services and wider public sector organisations are also able to use the framework, alongside NHS organisations.

Lynne Gray, Category Manager – Health, NHS SBS said: "As winter sets in, colds, flu, and seasonal viruses put extra strain on hospitals across the UK. For people living with long‑term respiratory conditions like asthma, COPD, or sleep apnoea, the risks are even greater.

“By moving care into the community, we can help reduce avoidable A&E visits, easing pressure on hospital beds and frontline staff during the busiest time of year.”