Written evidence demonstrating the extent and level of an individual’s care needs are vital in the CHC assessment process, particularly for appeals or retrospective claims where a significant period of time has often passed since the original assessment. I see a number of CHC appeals or retrospective claims which are closed due to lack of evidence where records have been destroyed, lost or damaged. As the appeal / retrospective process is so slow families are left in despair when notified that their case is closed – a decision which the CCG (Clinical Commissioning Group) may reach months or years after the family started the claim on behalf of their loved one.
In circumstances where I act for families who have already received the notice that their case is being closed, I have been able to challenge the CCG and revisit the decision through Local Resolution procedures. This involves me forensically analysing the information that is available about the individual to complete a clinical ‘join-the-dots’ which whilst time consuming can ultimately prove successful in tackling the issue of missing information.
A far better approach in the face of such delays, is to obtain copies of all care records at the beginning of the process; I do this on behalf of my clients not just to inform our submissions for the appeal or retrospective claim but also so that I can retain them for safekeeping.
If notes that go AWOL affect you, contact me today for a free initial telephone consultation and lets track the information together..
