NTL Telewest Business, the cable firm's unit which supplies communications services to the public and private sectors, has been awarded a contract to deliver voice and data services to NHS organisations across the UK.

The NHS Purchasing and Supply Agency (PASA), an executive agency of the Department of Health, negotiates national framework agreements for the NHS across the UK.

The agency works with around 400 NHS trusts and health authorities and manages 3,000 national purchasing contracts. It influences around half of the £7bn spent in the NHS on goods and services in the health service.

Michael Fraser, IT network manager for Doncaster and Bassetlaw Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: "The NHS PASA framework has been an enormous help and has ultimately changed the way we purchase our IT.

"Now we can place orders instantly, get confirmation instantly and then get on with the really important job of implementing the technology.

"NTL Telewest Business has proved itself through NHS PASA to be the best value for money supplier with the added benefit of a smooth implementation and management process."

NHS organisations that have purchased NTL Telewest Business products and services using the NHS PASA framework include Camden & Islington Shared Services, Doncaster and Bassetlaw Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Doncaster Royal Infirmary, Islington PCT, North Bristol NHS Trust, Rotherham PCT, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield Teaching Hospital and St Helens & Knowsley PCT.