Continuing Healthcare

Continuing Healthcare is the name given by the NHS to a package of care that is arranged and funded solely by the NHS for individuals who are not in hospital but have complex on-going healthcare needs.

If you are eligible, you will be able to receive NHS Continuing Healthcare in your own home, if you are not eligible you may be able to receive assistance from your local authority with funding and organising a care package to meet your continuing care needs.

To be eligible for NHS Continuing Healthcare you must be over 18 and have a complex medical condition and substantial and on-going care needs. You must have a "primary health need", which means that your main or primary need for care must relate to your health. 

Eligibility for NHS Continuing Healthcare does not depend on a specific health condition, illness or diagnosis, who provides the care, or where the care is provided.

In most circumstances you will be required to have an initial screening assessment for continuing healthcare by a Doctor or nurse whilst you are in hospital. Alternately, where you are already at home or have been discharged from hospital, you may request an assessment by contacting your social worker.

Caring Direct is currently commissioned by Social Care Teams to assist in providing continuing healthcare in all areas detailed within this website.