The individual funding request policy explains how NHS Essex considers requests for treatments that are not routinely funded by the NHS.
Sometimes a patient may need a treatment that is not normally available through local NHS services. In these situations, a clinician can ask NHS Essex to consider funding the treatment through an Individual Funding Request (IFR).
Each request is reviewed fairly and consistently using national guidance, clinical evidence and local NHS policies.
For full details, download the accessible Word version of the policy at the end of the page.
What is an individual funding request?
An Individual Funding Request (IFR) is a request from a healthcare professional asking NHS Essex to fund a treatment for a specific patient.
This may happen when:
- there is no existing NHS Essex policy covering the treatment
- the patient does not meet the usual criteria for treatment
- the clinician believes the patient has exceptional clinical circumstances
Patients cannot submit an IFR directly. Requests must come from the healthcare professional responsible for the patient’s care.
How requests are assessed
NHS Essex reviews each request carefully.
The review considers:
- clinical evidence
- patient need
- expected benefits of treatment
- value for money
- whether the request is exceptional
A specialist panel may review the information before a decision is made.
Fair and consistent decision-making
NHS Essex aims to make decisions fairly and consistently.
All requests are assessed using the same principles and available evidence. Decisions are not based on personal circumstances, lifestyle or ability to pay.
If a request is approved
If funding is approved, the patient can receive treatment through NHS-funded services.
The treatment must be provided in line with NHS Essex policies and commissioning arrangements.
Policy review
This policy was approved on 1 April 2026 and is due for review in April 2028.
For full details, download the accessible Word version of the policy below.
Individual Funding Policy (832kB docx)