Decision Support Tool (DST)
Meeting Advocacy
What is NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC)
NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) is a fully funded package of care provided by the NHS for individuals with significant and complex health needs. The NHS covers all costs associated with the individual’s care, including medical treatment, personal care, and support with daily activities. This means the individual does not have to pay for their care. To receive this funding, individuals must undergo an assessment to determine their eligibility. For most people this will mean having a Decision Support Tool (DST) completed.
What is a Continuing Healthcare Decision Support Tool (DST)
The Continuing Healthcare Decision Support Tool (DST) is a key document used in the assessment process for NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) funding
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The Decision Support Tool (DST) itself is not an assessment. Instead, it is a document used to record and organise the evidence gathered from a comprehensive assessment of an individual’s health and social care needs
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The tool organises care needs into 12 domains, such as behaviour, cognition, mobility, and nutrition. Each domain is assessed and scored based on the severity of the individual’s needs
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The DST is usually completed in a meeting by a Multidisciplinary team (MDT). The MDT typically includes Healthcare Professionals representing the NHS and Social Care Professionals representing the Local Autority
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Other people in the meeting should include the individual the DST is for, relatives/representatives, the care provider, professionals involved in providing care and Advocates.
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Before the DST meeting Collation of Evidence takes place: Relevant medical records, care plans, and reports from doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers are collected including infomation from the individual and there representatives including advocates. This evidence will be discussed in the DST meeting.
Why Choose an Independent CHC Nurse Advocate
A CHC Nurse Advocate can offer unique advantages compared to other types of advocates due to their specific healthcare expertise:
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Specialised Medical Knowledge: As a CHC Nurse Advocate, I bring extensive medical expertise, ensuring a thorough understanding of your healthcare needs and how they relate to CHC eligibility.
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Expertise and Experience: Independent CHC Nurse Advocates are well-versed in the NHS Continuing Healthcare framework and the intricacies of the DST. Their expertise ensures that all relevant information is accurately captured and presented
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In-Depth CHC Process Insight: My experience with the CHC assessment process allows me to navigate the system efficiently and effectively, advocating for your best interests. By handling the complexities of the CHC process, I alleviate the stress and burden on you and your family, allowing you to focus on your health.
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Enhanced Communication: A an Independent CHC Nurse Advocate I can effectively communicate complex medical and care needs to the multidisciplinary team, ensuring that nothing is overlooked. I cna also help clarify any questions or concerns you might have
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Objective Perspective: Being independent, I provide an unbiased view, focusing solely on the best interests of the individual. This objectivity can be crucial in ensuring a fair assessment.
My Services Include
As an independent registered nurse with extensive experience in Continuing Healthcare (CHC), I offer a dedicated CHC Advocacy Service designed to support you through the Decision Support Tool (DST) assessment process. My service provides comprehensive guidance through each step of the DST process, offering expert advice on documentation and potential outcomes. My goal is to ensure you receive a thorough and fair evaluation, advocating for your needs every step of the way. DST Advocacy Service, led by an experienced Registered Nurse
What I Offer:
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Expert Guidance: As a Registered Nurse will assist you to understand the NHS Continuing Healthcare criteria.
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Preparing for a meeting: I assist with preparing for a DST meeting by advising on the necessary documents and what to send to the Integrated Care Board (ICB). As an Independent Registered Nurse, I offer personalised services tailored to your needs, including reviewing documentation and discussing what to expect during the meeting.
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Personalised Support: I will meet with you and support you during the Decision Support Tool (DST) assessment, or represent you at the assessment if you are unable to attend in person, to ensure an accurate and fair assessment takes place.
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Comprehensive Feedback: After the assessment, we give you feedback on the assessment process and advise on possible outcomes and options available to you following the DST.
Why Choose Cooper Care Consultancy?
Expertise: Professional assessment and guidance from a Registered Nurse. With my expert knowledge, skills, and extensive understanding of how services function across the UK, I can effectively navigate the ‘postcode lottery’ associated with funding eligibility within CHC.
Confidentiality: You will interact directly with me throughout the entire process, ensuring continuity and that your voice is always heard. No need to repeat your story multiple times.
Affordable Expertise with Tailored Solutions: As an Independent Registered Nurse, I provide highly personalised and bespoke services tailored to meet your individual needs, at a fraction of the cost charged by other organisations.