Department of Health

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Information for the general public

  • Last modified date:
    30 September 2009

Guidance and advice for the general public related to the delivery of NHS continuing health care and NHS-funded nursing care.

Advice note on the effects of continuing healthcare on entitlements to benefits

This note explains what happens to your entitlement to social security and other benefits if you receive NHS continuing healthcare.

Information on NHS-funded nursing care

The NHS Plan set out a commitment to bring in free nursing care from a registered nurse, for people paying all of the costs of their care.

On 1 October 2001, the Government delivered on this commitment and the NHS now meets the costs of registered nursing care to provide, delegate and supervise care in a variety of settings; a hospital, nursing home, hospice or the patient’s own home. This removes the anomaly of people having to pay for care in a nursing home that would be provided free in residential accommodation or at home.

NHS continuing healthcare and NHS-funded nursing care - public information leaflet

Published: 30 September 2009

This leaflet gives a summary of information for the public on NHS continuing healthcare and NHS-funded nursing care, including details of what an individual should do if they think they may be eligible.

Integrated Care Network (ICN)

The ICN helps frontline organisations to work together to deliver flexible services that help people to remain in control and live independent lives.

Change Agent Team (CAT)

The CAT Team was established in January 2002 to tackle delayed transfers of care (or delayed hospital discharges) and associated arrangements.

Additional links

Make an enquiry

Make an enquiry about DH policy related to continuing care.

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