A plain-English guide to every domain in the NHS Continuing Healthcare Decision Support Tool — what each level means, real examples, and how the scoring works.
This guide is part of ProbateHelp's Support & Benefits guide cluster.
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There is no points-based pass mark. The framework says a clear recommendation of eligibility would be expected with one Priority level or Severe levels in at least two domains. One Severe level with needs in other domains, or several High and/or Moderate levels, may also indicate a primary health need depending on the combination. The multidisciplinary team recommends; the Integrated Care Board makes the eligibility decision.
Yes. GOV.UK guidance provides a process for asking an ICB to assess a previously unassessed period of care from 1 April 2012. The ICB first checks whether the period was already assessed and whether a full assessment is required. Ask the relevant ICB about the period and evidence it needs.
A multidisciplinary team completes the DST after a comprehensive assessment. It must include either two professionals from different healthcare professions, or one healthcare professional and one person responsible for assessing adult care-and-support needs. The individual should be invited to attend or be represented wherever practicable. The MDT recommends; the ICB decides. The completed DST should be provided with the decision, subject to the lawful basis for sharing it with a representative.
NHS Continuing Healthcare covers the full assessed care package where the person has a primary health need. NHS-funded nursing care is a weekly contribution paid directly to a registered nursing home for the registered nursing element of care. From 1 April 2026, the England standard rate is £267.68 per week and the higher rate is £368.24 per week for people who still qualify for the old higher band.
The NHS-funded package must meet the person's assessed health and associated care needs. A family should not be required to top up that assessed package, although separately chosen additional services may be arranged outside it. If an ICB later finds that the person was eligible for an earlier period, it should arrange reimbursement in line with the published guidance and the circumstances of the case.
The route depends on the decision. A negative check on a previously unassessed period, or a negative Checklist, normally uses the ICB's complaints or reconsideration route. A decision after a full eligibility assessment normally starts with local resolution, followed where appropriate by an NHS England independent review and then the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman. Follow the decision letter and current instructions.