From speaking to our clients we’ve heard many examples of incorrect information regarding NHS Continuing Healthcare. Here we help to dispel some of the most common myths.
Myth 1:
“My relative doesn’t have dementia or Parkinson’s. Will they be eligible for continuing healthcare funding?”
False: It’s a common, but incorrect belief that certain diagnoses, such as dementia or Parkinson’s automatically entitle an individual to NHS Continuing Healthcare funding. In reality, two people with the same condition, for example dementia can have completely different care needs. The assessment for NHS Continuing Healthcare funding is based on an individual’s health needs across 12 domains such as cognition, behaviour, mobility and skin. Whether they have dementia, or any other condition is not a factor in deciding if they are entitled to funding, but rather whether their care needs can be classified as primary health needs.
Myth 2:
“My relative can’t receive continuing healthcare funding because they’re cared for at home or in a residential home.”
False: NHS Continuing Healthcare funding can be provided in any setting, including at home or in a residential home. Location is irrelevant, and the individual would not be required to move to a nursing home to receive the funding.
Myth 3:
“My relative is not entitled to continuing healthcare funding because they own a home and have savings”
False: NHS Continuing Healthcare is not means tested. It’s irrelevant whether the individual has financial assets or if they own their home. The assessment is based solely on their health needs, not on their financial situation. This differs to local authority provided social care which is based on a financial assessment to determine what you’ll pay towards your care.
Myth 4:
“Another patient in the care home who was much worse was refused continuing healthcare funding. My relative can’t be eligible”
False: The only way to determine if an individual is entitled to continuing healthcare funding is to be assessed. The eligibility of other people is completely irrelevant, each patient’s health needs are unique and assessed on how they impact on their care needs. If you have a relative with complex health needs, who is paying for care, contact us for advice.
Myth 5:
“Continuing healthcare is only provided to patients with a limited life expectancy who are receiving end of life care”
False: NHS Continuing Healthcare funding is not assessed on an individual’s life expectancy but whether their needs are primary health needs and complex, intense or unpredictable in their nature. There is a pathway known as Fast-track CHC funding which is provided to individuals with a rapidly deteriorating condition that may be entering a terminal phase. However, this is separate to NHS Continuing Healthcare funding.
Myth 6:
“The care home have told me my relative isn’t eligible for continuing healthcare funding and I shouldn’t bother applying. They said no one gets it”
False: The only way to determine whether or not someone is eligible for continuing healthcare funding is for an assessment to be carried out. Many people are incorrectly denied continuing healthcare funding – or even discouraged from applying in the first place. We’re dedicated to helping those eligible to receive the funding they are entitled to.
Unsure if you or a loved one qualifies?
If you think you or a loved one may be eligible for CHC funding, don’t delay. We’re here to guide you through every step.
Submit an enquiry to get started.
