Principles that guide the NHS

Seven key principles guide the NHS in all it does:

1. The NHS provides a comprehensive service, available to all irrespective of gender, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, religion or belief. 
2. Access to NHS services is based on clinical need, not an individual’s ability to pay. 
3. The NHS aspires to the highest standards of excellence and professionalism.
4. NHS services must reflect the needs and preferences of patients, their families and their carers.
5. The NHS works across organisational boundaries and in partnership with other organisations in the interest of patients, local communities and the wider population.
6. The NHS is committed to providing best value for taxpayers’ money and the most effective, fair and sustainable use of finite resources. 
7. The NHS is accountable to the public, communities and patients that it serves.