People who believe they should have an assessment of eligibility for NHS Continuing Healthcare funding are being reminded that they should apply soon. The deadline is 31 March. Patients or the relatives of patients who received care that was paid for between 1 April 2011 and 31 March 2012 and were not assessed for NHS Continuing Healthcare but think they should be, have until 31st March to contact their PCT about, a statement from the Department of Health has explained.

Health Minister Norman Lamb (pictured) said: "The deadline to register for an assessment is approaching and we want everyone that should have been entitled to be assessed for a past period of care to be considered as soon as possible.

"In March 2012 we asked the NHS to communicate this deadline as quickly and effectively as possible to local people through whatever means necessary.

"If you believe that you or a loved one should have been assessed for eligibility for a period of care during the time 1 April 2011 to 31 March 2012, then all you need to do is contact your local Primary Care Trust by Sunday 31 March. You can find their contact details online at NHS Choices, or in the phone book."

NHS Continuing Healthcare is for individuals who have been assessed as needing health care which can be provided in a range of settings – including residential care homes (with or without nursing), or their own homes. When eligibility is agreed, NHS funding meets all the individual's assessed needs, including accommodation in some cases.

Once individuals have contacted their PCT, they will be told about the process and sent the relevant forms to complete. If appropriate, their case will be considered against the framework applicable for the time period under review.

For many who are unsure about whether the situation applies to them, expert advice is often available from support charities, such as the Alzheimer's Society, or local advice centres.

 • Picture of Norman Lamb by www.acumenimages.com