Checks Out
All calculators
Care Fees & Later Life2 min check

NHS Continuing Healthcare Checker

NHS CHC funds 100% of care for people with a 'primary health need'. Answer questions across the 12 care domains for an indicative view.

Short answer

NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) is fully-funded NHS care for adults with a "primary health need" — care driven mainly by a health condition rather than social need. It pays for all care costs (home or care home) with no means-test. Eligibility is decided across 12 care domains; one "severe" or two "high" usually triggers consideration. Estimated 50–60% of those eligible never get assessed.
Step 1 of 30%

Care needs

Rate severity in each area: None, Low, Moderate, High, Severe.

How it works

An initial Checklist (low bar) is completed by a GP, social worker or hospital. If passed, a Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) completes a full Decision Support Tool (DST) scoring each domain Priority/Severe/High/Moderate/Low/None. The decision considers nature, intensity, complexity and unpredictability of needs — not just the score.

Worked example

Late-stage dementia with falls, choking risk, behavioural symptoms and complex medication = likely 2-3 high domains + cognition severe → strong CHC case. Total saving: £60,000–£100,000+/year vs self-funding nursing care.

Who should use this

  • •Anyone with significant nursing needs (not just personal care)
  • •Families currently self-funding care home placement
  • •People recently discharged from hospital with complex needs
  • •Anyone refused CHC who suspects a wrong decision

Common mistakes

  • ×Not requesting a Checklist — it must be offered but rarely is
  • ×Letting the assessor underscore needs — bring evidence and a friend
  • ×Accepting refusal without appeal — Independent Review Panels overturn many decisions
  • ×Confusing CHC with Funded Nursing Care (£235.88/week — much smaller)

Frequently asked questions

Who pays before CHC is decided?▾

You do, then get refunded if successful. Push for fast-track if life expectancy is under 12 weeks.

Does CHC cover home care?▾

Yes — CHC funds care wherever you live. Personal Health Budgets allow you to manage the funds.

Can I get help?▾

Beacon CHC offers free advice; specialist solicitors handle complex appeals.

Related calculators

Reclaim Care Fees Checker →Care Home Fees Calculator →Care Funding Options →Means Test Calculator →