Equality for all
The National Health Service in Scotland is fully committed to providing the best possible patient care and is required by law to offer each individual the right to high quality, accessible health care. Government legislation prohibits discrimination on any grounds, which means all citizens should be treated in the same way.
The Review of Equalities
Recently, there has been a great deal of media speculation surrounding the so-called ‘postcode lottery’ regarding the provision of certain medications or treatments on the NHS. Currently, the Review of Equalities is being carried out in Scotland to determine the current situation regarding equal health provision for the Scottish people; the information obtained from this review will be used to monitor public services and address any pre-existing concerns.
The Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA)
The Equality Impact Assessment is a form of systematic review of the decision-making and policy-making processes undertaken by Health ministers and professionals; this assessment aims to ensure that policies are effective, fair and in the interest of the masses. The findings of the assessment are made public for anyone who wishes to read them.
Good Quality Care
Hospitals and healthcare settings are required to comply with a certain standard of healthcare; if this standard is not being reached patients may suffer and lose faith in the National Health Service. Continuous assessment helps to ensure that high standards of patient care are being provided and identifies any underlying issues; this will subsequently help authorities to change the way they operate in order to provide a more effective and efficient service to patients.