Why Have I Never Heard About NHS CHC?
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Why Have I Never Heard of NHS Continuing Healthcare? For many families navigating the financial challenges of care, the discovery of NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) often comes as a shock. This funding, which covers the full cost of care for eligible individuals, remains one of the NHS’s best-kept secrets—leaving thousands of families unaware of an alternative to expensive self-funding. But why is CHC so rarely discussed? Why Isn’t CHC More Widely Known About? Despite its significance, CHC is not actively promoted by the NHS or care providers. There are two key reasons for this: 1) Budget Constraints Every successful CHC application comes directly from NHS funds, putting pressure on already stretched budgets. Encouraging widespread applications would significantly increase costs, making it financially disadvantageous for the NHS to raise awareness of CHC. 2) Care Home Profitability Care homes often charge self-funding residents higher fees to help offset their operating costs. This process, known as cross-subsidisation, means that care homes have little incentive to inform residents about CHC eligibility—especially when private funds are still available. Why Is the CHC Application Process So Difficult? Applying for CHC can feel like an uphill battle. Families frequently describe the process as frustrating, complex, and heavily biased against applicants. Key challenges include: • Vague Eligibility Criteria – The NHS uses a “primary health need” test, but this is open to interpretation, leading to inconsistent decisions. • NHS Gatekeeping – CHC assessors act as both judge and jury, and many families feel the system is designed to limit approvals. • Administrative Hurdles – The process is paperwork-intensive and time-consuming, often leaving families overwhelmed. Can You Apply for CHC Funding Retrospectively? Yes. If your loved one was never assessed for CHC during a period of care, you can request a retrospective review—going as far back as 1st April 2012. However, be prepared for resistance. The NHS rigorously scrutinises retrospective claims, as successful applications can result in six-figure payouts when interest is included. Families must provide compelling evidence, making expert guidance essential to navigating the process. CHC: A Missed Opportunity for Many Families A lack of awareness about CHC has left countless families unknowingly paying for care that should have been funded by the NHS. Many only discover CHC after depleting savings or selling a loved one’s home, leading to feelings of frustration and injustice. What Can You Do to Avoid Missing Out? If you or a loved one has complex healthcare needs, a CHC assessment should always be your first step before considering local authority funding or self-funding. • Be proactive – Request an assessment as soon as care needs arise. • Educate yourself – Understand the NHS National Framework for CHC and your rights. • Gather evidence – Keep medical records and care assessments that demonstrate health-related needs. • Seek expert advice – CHC claims are challenging, and professional support can improve your chances of success. By taking action early, families can avoid unnecessary financial strain and ensure their loved ones receive the funding they’re entitled to. |
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