It is worth a great deal, because it covers care home fees that would otherwise come from savings or the family home. Eligibility depends on your needs, not your money.
Quick facts
- Pays for
- All your care, health and social
- Where
- At home or in a care home
- Who
- Adults with complex health needs
- Means-tested?
- No
- Decision
- Usually within 28 days
What it is
Some people with long-term complex health needs qualify for free health and social care arranged and funded solely by the NHS. This is known as NHS continuing healthcare.
NHS continuing healthcare can be provided in a variety of settings outside hospital, such as in your own home or in a care home.
Who is eligible
NHS continuing healthcare is for adults.
To be eligible for NHS continuing healthcare, you must be assessed by a team of healthcare professionals (a multidisciplinary team). The team will look at all your care needs and relate them to:
- what help you need
- how complex your needs are
- how intense your needs can be
- how unpredictable they are, including any risks to your health if the right care is not provided at the right time
The assessment
A decision about eligibility for a full assessment for NHS continuing healthcare should usually be made within 28 days of an initial assessment or request for a full assessment.
Carers and family members should also be consulted where appropriate.
If you are not eligible
If you are not eligible for NHS continuing healthcare, you can be referred to your local council who can discuss with you whether you may be eligible for support from them. See social care assessments.
Common questions
Is NHS continuing healthcare means-tested?
No. Eligibility depends on your assessed needs.
Can it pay for a care home?
Yes. It can be provided in a care home or in your own home.
How long does a decision take?
A decision about a full assessment should usually be made within 28 days.
Is it for children?
No. Children and young people may get a continuing care package instead.