Introduction
NHS continuing healthcare (CHC) is a package of care provided outside of hospital that is arranged and funded solely by the NHS for individuals who have significant ongoing healthcare needs. Such individuals are eligible for NHS funding if their healthcare needs go beyond what can legally be provided by local authorities, but this is a highly complex and sensitive area, with potentially significant cost implications for the individual. If someone is assessed as eligible for CHC, the NHS is responsible for funding the full package of health and social care. However, if someone is not eligible for CHC, they may have to pay for all or part of their social care costs, depending on their financial circumstances.
The Department of Health (the Department) is responsible for the legal framework for CHC, including setting criteria for assessing eligibility for CHC through a national framework. CCGs are responsible for determining eligibility for CHC and for commissioning this care. NHS England is responsible for making sure CCGs comply with the national framework. People can access CHC funding through two processes: a standard CHC process and a fast-track process for people with rapidly deteriorating conditions who may be nearing the end of their life. The number of people assessed as eligible for CHC funding has grown by an average of 6.4% over the last four years. In 2015−16, almost 160,000 people received, or were assessed as eligible for, CHC funding.
15 January 2018