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How much the NHS will pay for a care home — and what happens when the home costs more

If a person qualifies for NHS Continuing Healthcare, the NHS covers the full cost of their care home place with no upper limit and no means testing. The NHS negotiates fees directly with the care provider. If the person wishes to live in a home that charges more than the NHS is willing to fund, a top-up arrangement may be possible, with a third party making up the difference. People who have nursing needs but do not qualify for full Continuing Healthcare may still receive the Funded Nursing Contribution, a weekly NHS payment toward the nursing component of their care home fees.

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