Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Medicare to help pay for Christian Science nursing care in a facility?
Yes, an individual who has enrolled in Medicare and has a Medicare card may be eligible for benefits. These benefits may be available at those Christian Science nursing facilities which have been designated as Religious Nonmedical Health Care Institutions (RNHCI’s) and are certified by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). A special committee that includes the Director of Christian Science Nursing at a RNHCI will assess your need for care and ascertain whether you are eligible for Medicare benefits.
Is financial assistance available for Christian Science nursing care?
Yes, many Christian Science nursing organizations offer financial assistance. Each accredited organization has its own benevolence policy.
In the United States, the National Fund for Christian Science Nursing (NFCSN) provides financial assistance to individuals for Christian Science nursing care and Christian Science practitioner treatments. For more information about the NFCSN, click here.
In the United Kingdom, The Aid Fund for Christian Scientists in Need of Nursing Care provides financial assistance to individuals for the services of a Christian Science nurse. For more information about The Aid Fund, click here.
In Canada, the Christian Science National Fund (CSNF) provides financial assistance to individuals for Christian Science nursing care and Christian Science practitioner treatment. For more information about the CSNF, click here.
Are Christian Science nursing facilities inspected by government agencies?
Yes. In the United States, some facilities are licensed and inspected by their state. In the United Kingdom, Christian Science nursing care homes are licensed under the Care Act 2014 in Great Britain. Facilities regularly receive inspections from fire marshals and departments of health — ensuring that procedures to maintain cleanliness, safety, fire evacuation, etc., are properly in place.
In the United States, facilities that are certified by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) receive regular inspections to audit Medicare paperwork and compliance with CMS standards. In the United Kingdom, facilities are regularly inspected by the Care Quality Commission, an office of the British government.
Do you have to be a member of a Christian Science church to be a patient at a Christian Science nursing facility or to receive care from a visiting Christian Science nursing service?
All accredited organizations require that patients rely solely on Christian Science treatment and prayer and are free from the use of medicine, drugs, medical techniques, and therapy. Each Christian Science nursing facility determines its own admission requirements.
How can I find a Christian Science nursing facility or visiting Christian Science nursing service near my home?
View a list of accredited organizations here.
The Association of Organizations for Christian Science Nursing (AOCSN) lists organizations here that provide Christian Science nursing care and are accredited by The Commission as well as organizations that are not accredited.
For a directory of accredited Christian Science nursing organizations as well as Christian Science nurses who advertise in The Christian Science Journal, churches, and reading rooms, click here.
How can I find a Christian Science nurse?
Many Christian Science nurses advertise in The Christian Science Journal, a monthly publication available at Christian Science Reading Rooms. Click here for the online Christian Science Journal Directory. Or visit a reading room near you.