The implementation of person-centred care is considered complex and hard to sustain in today’s NHS. To provide a dignified and caring experience to all, equality in health should consider individuals or groups at risk of isolation, as well as those who may not wish to, or may not be able to, self-manage fully. This may include, for example, the very young, older people, under-represented groups, homeless people or unconscious patients. This article considers varying levels of intervention in health and illness to make health and social care services sustainable and accessible to all.