NHS Continuing Health Care (CHC) is the name given to a package of care that is arranged and funded solely by the NHS for individuals outside of hospital who have ongoing health care needs. A person can receive CHC in various setting, including at home or care home.
Funding must be applied for by health care professionals following the correct processes and if awarded is reviewed periodically to see if a person still meets eligibility criteria.
Anyone assessed as having a certain level of care needs may receive NHS CHC funding however they must meet specific criteria. It is not dependent on a particular disease, diagnosis or condition. Sometimes assessments may be accelerated (fast tracked), if an urgent package of care is needed due to the patients rapidly deteriorating condition so that care can be arranged as quickly as possible. The availability of practical care is dependent upon capacity and community services.
For further information and to download Continuing Health Care and NHS-Funded Nursing Care Public Information Booklet, please visit www.nhs.uk/chq/Pages/2392