The NHS will remain free at the point of need for everyone while the SNP is in government, Health Secretary Alex Neil has pledged.
He made the commitment on the 65th anniversary of the establishment of the health service. It has provided people with medical care from cradle to grave since it was set up on July 5 1948.
The NHS deals with around 150,000 patient contacts a day in Scotland and is the country’s largest employer, with around 157,000 workers.
Mr Neil said it is “simply not good enough” that health inequalities persist, leaving people born in the poorest communities with a lower life expectancy than those born in wealthy areas.
“I am absolutely committed to the founding values of our NHS. I can promise that while this Government is in charge, it will be free at the point of access for everyone.”
Mr Neil spoke out before he visits Wishaw General Hospital maternity unit to meet newborn babies.
“Today, Scotland’s NHS is a both a tribute to the kind of society Scotland is and the kind of society we must continue to aspire to be.
“Anyone who comes for treatment will get the care they need, regardless of whether they are rich or poor.
“That is the embodiment of a just and equitable society. But this isn’t just about the institution that is the health service.
“It’s about the health of our people. Health inequalities blight Scottish society. It is simply not good enough that someone’s life expectancy should depend on where they are born, or the income of their parents.”
A baby boy born in the poorest parts of Scotland can expect to live 14 years less than one born in the most affluent areas, while for girls the difference is eight years.
Politicians in Scotland have acted where they can to help tackle this, he said.