Previously Unassessed Periods of Care (PUPoC)

Getting your head around Previously Unassessed Periods of Care (PUPoC) can be overwhelming. At Farley Dwek, we’re here to make it simple for you.  

Previously Unassessed Periods of Care (PUPoC) – also referred to as retrospective reviews – are an essential aspect of funding that many individuals may overlook when assessing care fees. If you or a loved one have received long-term care, there’s a chance that historical periods of care weren’t properly evaluated for funding. This is where PUPoC assessments can help. 

In this article, we’ll explore what PUPoC is, how it works, and how Farley Dwek can assist you in reclaiming care fees already paid.

What is PUPoC? 

Previously Unassessed Periods of Care (PUPoC) refer to retrospective claims for any periods of self-funded care that may have been overlooked or not fully assessed for funding eligibility at the time. 

If there is evidence that an individual should have been eligible for NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) funding, but was not considered at the time, individuals or their families may be able to claim for the funding retrospectively.  

For example, we often encounter families who, after the passing of a loved one in care, have had to deplete their savings or even sell their home to cover care costs – an unnecessary and unjust burden. At Farley Dwek, we support these families in PUPoC claims via our Retrospective Reclaims Service. 

Why might PUPoC be necessary? 

PUPoC assessments become necessary when families and individuals realise that they’ve paid substantial sums for care that should have been covered by the NHS.  

There are various reasons you may have missed out on CHC funding at the time care was provided. Examples include: 

• Being discharged directly from the hospital into a care home. 
• Initial eligibility being assessed and rejected, only for the condition to worsen without a subsequent reassessment. 
• Receiving NHS-funded nursing care but never undergoing an assessment for NHS continuing healthcare. 
• Assumptions by more affluent patients that no support would be available. 
• General unawareness of funding options available.  

It’s important to understand that CHC funding is not means-tested. This means your income or savings have no impact on your eligibility – if you meet the criteria, you are entitled to free NHS CHC funding, and therefore eligible to apply for PUPoC. 

At Farley Dwek, we work diligently to gather the necessary evidence to make sure that individuals and their families receive the care funding they are entitled to.  

Please note: Claims are generally only considered for periods from 1st of April 2012 onwards. 

The Assessment Process 

The PUPoC assessment process is similar to the Full Assessment process, however it is conducted retrospectively. We use a thorough process to assess previously unassessed periods of care.  

This includes: 

• Reviewing historical evidence from GPs, hospitals, and care records. 
• Examining previous full assessments (CHC) to ensure no period of care has been left out. 
• Identifying eligibility for both those currently in care, those who have left care, and even those who have passed away. 

Once the application has been submitted to the Integrated Care Board (ICB) claims are typically resolved within 12-24 months, although exceptional circumstances may result in longer processing times. As part of our Retrospective Reclaims Service, we closely monitor your application and keep you informed of any updates or decisions throughout the process. 

PUPoC guidance & reclaiming fees 

For many clients, applying for a PUPoC assessment can feel overwhelming and emotionally taxing. It often serves as a difficult reminder of a challenging period in their lives, adding further strain during an already trying time.  

At Farley Dwek, we support our clients by providing clear guidance and expert support throughout the application, assessment and appeal process. Our experienced team of qualified nurses and case managers will thoroughly review GP and care records to uncover any missed funding opportunities. This ensures no stone is left unturned and gives the greatest chance of a successful application. 

With our Records Review Service, we help you understand how much you could potentially reclaim from previously paid care fees. This includes assessing eligibility based on historical evidence and guiding you on the best approach to make your claim.  

Remember: Reclaiming care fees that should never have been paid is not just about financial recovery – it’s about achieving justice for you and your family. 

Reclaim your care fees 

If you believe you or a loved one may be eligible to reclaim care fees, now is the time to act. At Farley Dwek, we’re here to help you navigate the process with confidence and expertise. 

Download our free guide to CHC for more information or contact us directly on 0800 011 4136 to discuss your case and start your claim today.