Thursday, December 17, 2015

A Brief Overview Of Life Care Planning

By Raymond Foster


A new program is now available for individuals effected by catastrophic disabilities due to injury or illness. The program known as life care planning often involves more action, research, and thought than other similar plans. Advanced directives, living wills and others tend to focus on end of life issues. Whereas, these new professionals and programs work with clients on an ongoing basis.

Each client works with a professional which establishes an evaluation to determine the severity of the disability or illness. Consideration given to clients in this type planning is quite intensive and relates to goals, needs and interests. Some clients may have multiple plans as each disability often requires a different set of components as clients age and progress.

Whether suffering one, or multiple disabilities, clients often work with more than one professional. Working with different providers is often common when it comes to these life based care programs. Whether due to age, changes in lifestyle, ill-health, or the resignation or retirement of a professional, there can be a number of different reasons for these changes over time.

Individuals can benefit in a number of ways from these type programs. Being a system akin to case management, various tools can be used for ongoing consultation with clients, families and professionals. In most cases, this type planning is something that will be needed on a life long basis. Some of these tools include conference calling, internet research, telephone contact, video-conferencing and information sharing.

The use of these type care planning programs along with regular medical visits, physical therapy and at times psychological counseling are often used as management and preventative tools. Use of these type programs within the judicial system often helps create an accurate profile and needs of those seeking to become involved in the process. Once a profile has been developed, the provider can better understand and accommodate the needs of each client.

While elements of the program are often consistent between clients, each has a different and specific need. As such, most programs are individualized to the needs of each client and family. During enrollment, a plan is devised for current and future treatment. Whether due to aging, or complex complications, clients with a catastrophic disability are most likely going to need continued ongoing care in different areas.

The sequence for each client involves projected evaluations, modalities, medication, testing, supplies, walker, wheelchair, home based care, future medical care, rehabilitation and other needs. While many clients may have transportation, there area also those without vehicles or those whom can not operate one due to health. As a result, transportation, food delivery and other services may also be needed either as part of the program.

Ultimately, it is up to each individual to determine whether or not this type program may be appropriate. Individuals living alone with a catastrophic disability, injury or illness often find these type programs comforting and helpful in managing ongoing medical needs. Whereas, as some programs contain a great deal of future planning, even those with limited disabilities can often still benefit from these type programs.




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