Is there a time limit for applying the fast track tool in end of life cases?
Answer No. The guidance is very clear that (i) there can be no upper or lower limit for applying the fast track tool and so (ii) each case should be judged on its own merits. In the words of the document Core Values and Principles published with the consultation document “Individuals with a rapidly deteriorating condition and short-term life expectancy will immediately qualify for NHS continuing healthcare. For the purposes of determining eligibility to NHS funding, ‘short-term’ should not to be defined prescriptively or restrictively, but should be based on an assessment of the person’s care needs and considered as a period of time, which can be expressed in days, and weeks. Strict time limits are not relevant for end of life cases and should not be imposed – it is the responsibility of the assessor to make a decision based on the relevant facts of the case.” The guidance does not restrict user of the Fast Track to people with a rapidly deteriorating conditions that includes a prognos
