Health service procurement (Provider Selection Regime Wales): Most Suitable Provider Process

The Most Suitable Provider Process of the Provider Selection Regime Wales may be used when:

• the relevant authority is not required to follow Direct Award Process 1
• the relevant authority is changing an existing contracting arrangement considerably (such that it must not be continued under Direct Award Process 2)
• a new service is being arranged
• the existing provider no longer wants to provide the services
• the relevant authority wants to consider potential providers (even where the proposed contracting arrangements are not a considerable change or otherwise), as this is in the best interest of people who use the service, but there is no benefit to running a competitive process or it is disproportionate to do so.

The Most Suitable Provider Process must not be used to conclude a framework agreement or to award a contract based on a framework agreement.

You should also refer to:

• the Health Services (Provider Selection Regime) (Wales) Regulations 2025 (on Legislation.gov.uk)
• statutory guidance