What you told us about the NHS continuing healthcare process

Healthwatch Bath and Northeast Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire undertook a research project to learn about people’s views and experiences of the NHS continuing healthcare (CHC) application process. Between March and May 2022, they ran a survey and collected the responses from 20 people.

NHS continuing healthcare is a package of care arranged and funded by the NHS.

Of the 20 respondents, 12 had not received the relevant information for making an application. Respondents often found that the process of applying is time-consuming and frustrating. A majority of respondents (65%) were assessed as eligible for CHC. Responses indicated that those who were assessed as eligible understood the scoring system and the national tool used in the application. Those who did not meet the criteria questioned the process itself.

The majority (81%) of applicants were satisfied with the process. The report concludes with a spotlight on the need for better circulation of information about the application to ensure applicants are prepared. There is also a need for better communication with current care providers and the applicant about the status of the application. Applicants’ needs also need to be assessed fully, taking into account the way their need interact with one another across care domains.