NHS Continuing Healthcare provides comprehensive support for those with ongoing physical or mental health needs as a result of disability, injury or illness.
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NHS Continuing Healthcare is fully funded by the NHS and is wholly free of charge to the person receiving care. It is possible to receive NHS Continuing Healthcare even if you have a large amount of wealth or have received a compensation award towards the future cost of your care.
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NHS Continuing Healthcare is available in various settings, including in an individual’s own home, or in a care home. The NHS will either provide services direct or a payment to cover the cost of the services required to meet your care needs.
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Everyone who is eligible for NHS Continuing Healthcare has a right to request a direct payment to cover the cost of their care so that they can secure their own care services.

The assessment process for NHS Continuing Healthcare is lengthy and complex. Those who qualify as being eligible for NHS Continuing Healthcare tend to be people with a very high level of healthcare needs requiring support and assistance on an ongoing basis.
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An initial checklist tool is always completed to decide whether you should be referred for a full assessment.
This is usually undertaken by a nurse, social worker or other qualified individual when assessing your needs. It is incredibly important to ensure you have a Health and Welfare Lasting Power of Attorney in place to ensure your family/ trusted Attorney can also be present when such an assessment is carried out. 
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If you are assessed as potentially being eligible for NHS continuing healthcare  you will be referred to your local NHS Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) who will then arrange a full ‘Decision Tool’ assessment to be carried out.
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A ‘Decision Tool’ assessment requires input from other professionals such as your GP, who will provide evidence in relation to your care needs. A multi-disciplinary team meeting (MDT) will also be arranged to provide the various people involved in your care with an opportunity to review and assess your care needs before a final decision is made by your local NHS CCG. However, without the Health and Welfare Lasting Power of Attorney in place, your family/ attorney cannot insist on being involved and present during the process.