Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Healthcare

Healthcare must be delivered equitably to all patients, regardless of their background, identity, or circumstances. SJT scenarios frequently test whether candidates can recognise discrimination, respond to bias, ensure accessible care, and treat every patient with equal dignity. This lesson explores cultural competence, unconscious bias, the Equality Act 2010, and practical approaches to inclusive healthcare.

---

The Foundation: Everyone Counts

The NHS Constitution value of "Everyone counts" establishes the principle:

"We maximise our resources for the benefit of the whole community, and make sure nobody is excluded, discriminated against, or left behind."

In practice, this means:

• Every patient receives the same standard of care regardless of who they are
• Healthcare services are designed to be accessible to all
• Discrimination — whether intentional or unconscious — is actively challenged
• Health inequalities are recognised and addressed

---

The Equality Act 2010

The Nine Protected Characteristics

The Equality Act 2010 protects individuals from discrimination based on nine characteristics: