Does Dementia Qualify for NHS Continuing Healthcare?
There is no clear cut answer as to whether a person with a dementia is entitled to CHC Funding
One of the most common questions we receive is whether a diagnosis of dementia or similar neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, or the effects of a stroke qualifies an individual for NHS continuing healthcare (CHC) funding.
The answer is not straightforward and depends entirely on the individual’s care needs, not the diagnosis itself. NHS continuing healthcare is awarded based on the nature, complexity, intensity, and unpredictability of a person’s health needs, rather than the medical condition they have been diagnosed with.
For example, an individual in the early stages of dementia may experience symptoms such as mild memory loss or occasional confusion, which may not meet the threshold for NHS continuing healthcare. However, as the condition progresses and the person requires increased support with daily activities, medication management, or behavioural monitoring, their eligibility for CHC funding may change.
It is crucial to understand that eligibility is assessed based on current needs, not a fixed diagnosis. Some individuals may be declined funding initially but may qualify at a later date as their condition evolves. Unfortunately, many families assume that once someone is found ineligible, they will never qualify, which is not the case.
At Acorn Continuing Healthcare, we specialise in identifying the appropriate time to apply for NHS continuing healthcare funding. Our experienced team can support you in preparing a strong case that accurately reflects your loved one’s current health needs, giving you the best possible chance of success during the assessment process. If we find a person not to be eligible for funding during our free discovery call, we can provide guidance on what to look out for so you can better understand when would be the right time.
If you have questions about eligibility or need expert guidance through any aspect of the NHS continuing healthcare process, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.