Accessing Homecare CHC (Continuing Healthcare) funding in the UK.

The process typically includes an assessment to determine whether an individual is eligible for NHS Continuing Healthcare funding. 

Here’s a general outline of how to access this funding:

• Understand NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) Funding:
  What is CHC?
  
  NHS Continuing Healthcare is a fully funded package of care for individuals who have significant ongoing healthcare needs. This is often provided in a person’s home (homecare) or in a care home setting.
  
  Eligibility: It is intended for individuals whose primary need is healthcare, rather than social care. It is not means-tested and is available regardless of income or savings.

• Initiate the Process:
  Referral:

  If you believe that you or a loved one may be eligible for NHS Continuing Healthcare funding, the process typically starts with a referral. This can be made by a healthcare professional (such as a doctor, nurse, or social worker) or you can make an initial inquiry yourself through your local Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG).
  
  Eligibility: It is intended for individuals whose primary need is healthcare, rather than social care. It is not means-tested and is available regardless of income or savings.

• NHS CHC Assessment Process:
  Checklist Assessment:
  
  If the referral is accepted, the individual will undergo a *Checklist Assessment* to determine if they meet the eligibility criteria for a full NHS Continuing Healthcare assessment. The checklist looks at areas such as the individual’s medical history, physical health, mental health, and the complexity of their care needs.The checklist is usually completed by a healthcare professional who is familiar with the individual’s care needs.
  
  Full Assessment: If the checklist indicates the need for further evaluation, a more detailed, multidisciplinary team (MDT) assessment is arranged. This team typically consists of healthcare professionals who will look at the person’s care needs in more depth.
  
  This assessment may take place in the home, a hospital, or a care home setting.

• Decision and Outcome:
   Eligibility Decision:

  After the full assessment, the MDT will recommend whether or not the person meets the criteria for NHS Continuing Healthcare funding. The decision is made based on the severity and complexity of the person’s healthcare needs.
  
  If Eligible: If the individual is found eligible for CHC funding, the NHS will cover the cost of the homecare services needed.
  
  If Not Eligible: If the person is not eligible for CHC funding, they may be entitled to other types of support, such as local authority funding or personal health budgets (PHBs), depending on their needs.

• Appeal Process:
  Disagreement with Decision:

  If you disagree with the decision made after the assessment, you have the right to challenge it. This can be done through a review process or an independent appeal. You can request a review of the decision by contacting your local NHS body or the Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) responsible for the assessment.

• Homecare Services Under CHC Funding:

  If CHC funding is approved, the NHS will either provide or arrange the necessary homecare services. This could include medical care, nursing, rehabilitation, and other healthcare services that are deemed necessary to meet the person’s needs.
  
  The level and type of care will be personalized and based on the individual’s needs and preferences.

Key Points to Remember:

• Eligibility is based on healthcare needs, not financial means.
• The assessment considers complexity, intensity, and continuity of healthcare needs.
• Homecare CHC funding** is available for individuals who have substantial healthcare needs and require ongoing care at home.
• You can access the funding by initiating a referral or assessment with the NHS or by speaking to a healthcare professional involved in the person’s care.

It may be helpful to speak with a professional such as a social worker, or someone with experience in the CHC process to guide you through the assessment and appeal stages. If  you need any help or think that Airmid Staffing can help you in anyway please do not hesitate to give us a call.