New High Tech Imaging and Elective Surgery contracts go to market in September 2026
On 15 September 2026, we’re going to market for the new High Tech Imaging (HTI) and Elective Surgery Services (ESS) contracts. The new contracts will include clearer service expectations, updated performance measures and improved reporting to support safe, timely, and high-quality services, while helping to ensure the long-term sustainability of the Accident Compensation Scheme.
These changes are part of our efforts to strengthen how we commission secondary care to support better recovery outcomes for injured people and ensure services are used effectively and sustainably.
Our procurement approach for HTI
Using existing pricing as the maximum price point, we’ll use a Request for Quote (RFQ) process for the High Tech Imaging contract to invite suppliers in certain regions to submit a quote for MRI services. In other regions, we’ll use a Request for Application process. More details will be provided through the Government Electronic Tender System (GETS).
Our market analysis has highlighted an opportunity to test current market pricing and improve our understanding of how MRI services are delivered across the sector. The MRI market has a well-established supplier base and sufficient market competition in some regions to support an RFQ process. This process helps us manage Scheme costs responsibly while continuing to support providers and maintain access to quality services for New Zealanders.
Through the RFQ approach, we also want to deepen our understanding of the High Tech Imaging market to inform future commissioning decisions.
We want to better understand:
- supplier operating models, service delivery approaches, and available capacity
- how technology, innovation, and changing delivery models are influencing the market, and
- the factors that influence pricing, capacity, and service delivery across the market.
We remain committed to maintaining access to high-quality imaging services for kiritaki (clients) across New Zealand, including ensuring sufficient provider capacity and geographic coverage.
Our goal is to achieve sustainable pricing, while maintaining high standards of quality, clinical safety, service reliability and access for kiritaki. Pricing will be considered alongside service quality, clinical safety, capacity, access, and supplier capability.
For other High Tech Imaging modalities, we’ll use a Request for Application approach.
Our procurement approach for ESS
For the Elective Surgery Services contract, we’ll use a Request for Application approach.
For more information
We’ll provide further detail in our Advance Notice, which will be published on GETS on 31 August 2026. We’re also hosting supplier briefings on 11 September 2026 to share more about the procurement process for the HTI and ESS contracts.
Register now:
HTI Contract Tender Supplier Briefing
11 September 2026, 12-1 pm
Register now
ESS Contract Tender Supplier Briefing
11 September 2026, 1-1:30 pm
Register now