ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the various methods of procurement from leasing to private finance, and the pros and cons of each method. It explores the pathology market in general, provides an overview of how the market is changing and how it is likely to develop in the future. The chapter also discusses the role of NHS Supplies with details of the current structure and how the team can be contacted by pathologists. It focuses on European Union procurement law and how this affects the procurement of pathology equipment. With the recent clarification and relaxation of NHS private finance guidelines, more and more trusts are recognising that new financial initiatives allow opportunities to procure equipment, which may otherwise not be available to them. Private sector funding is likely to become an increasingly important ingredient within pathology, either via NHS laboratories, undertaking research on behalf of specific suppliers or by a joint approach in the replacement of equipment.
