As an NHS organisation, EMAS follows the NHS Constitution for England, which in the simplest terms is a document detailing the objectives of the National Health Service (NHS).
The Constitution sets out rights for patients, public and staff. It outlines NHS commitments to patients and staff, and the responsibilities that the public, patients and staff owe to one another to ensure that the NHS operates fairly and effectively. All NHS bodies and private and third sector providers supplying NHS services are required by law to take account of the Constitution in their decisions and actions.
Seven key principles which guide the NHS
- The NHS provides a comprehensive service, available to all
- Access to NHS services is based on clinical need, not an individual's ability to pay
- The NHS aspires to the highest standards of excellence and professionalism
- The patient will be at the heart of everything the NHS does
- The NHS works across organisational boundaries
- The NHS is committed to providing best value for taxpayers' money
- The NHS is accountable to the public, communities and patients that it serves