What is a Multidisciplinary Team Assessment — and When Does It Happen?
A Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) assessment is the second and definitive stage of the NHS Continuing Healthcare eligibility process. It is carried out by a team of health and social care professionals — typically including a nurse, a social worker, and other relevant clinicians — who collectively assess whether a person has a primary health need that qualifies them for full NHS funding.
When does it happen?
An MDT assessment follows a positive CHC Checklist screening. If the checklist indicates a person may be eligible for CHC, the local Integrated Care Board (ICB) has a duty to arrange a full MDT assessment. This should take place within 28 days of the checklist, though delays are common and families should follow up proactively.
What does the assessment involve?
The team reviews the person's needs across 12 care domains — including behaviour, cognition, communication, mobility, nutrition, continence, skin integrity, breathing, drug therapies, altered states of consciousness, and psychological and emotional needs. Each domain is rated, and the overall picture determines whether a primary health need exists.
What happens afterwards?
If CHC is awarded, the NHS arranges and funds all care from that point. If CHC is not awarded but the person has nursing needs, NHS-Funded Nursing Care may still apply. If CHC is declined and you disagree with the decision, you have the right to request a Local Resolution meeting and to appeal to the ICB.
The MDT assessment process can feel daunting. We help families prepare, understand what to expect, and challenge decisions they believe are wrong. Speak to us →