This is the sixth in a series of articles about healthcare and health management increasingly intersecting with wealth management.

The following article, from Brian Dooreck, MD, president and founder of Executive Health Navigation, continues an examination of how the worlds of health and wealth cross over.

The editors are pleased to share this content; the usual disclaimers apply. Email the editor to respond at tom.burroughes@wealthbriefing.com

Introduction
For family offices and high net worth advisors, managing health and medical affairs for clients and their families is paramount. Ensuring that medical appointments are not just scheduled but well-prepared for can significantly enhance the quality of healthcare services and, by extension, the client's overall wellbeing. This meticulous approach fosters trust and underscores the commitment to comprehensive client care. Here’s a complete guide to preparing for medical and doctor appointments in family offices and high net worth advisory services.

1.  Appointment scheduling
- Efficient coordination: Designate a dedicated patient advocate to manage appointments, ensuring they are scheduled promptly and conveniently, considering the client's preferences and physician availability, with privacy and discretion, by those who understand how the healthcare system works; and 
- Centralized database: Maintain the appropriate services or online chart; a secure database containing medical histories, previous diagnoses, and current medications. This information is invaluable for healthcare providers, streamlining the consultation process.

2.  Pre-appointment preparations
- Documentation: Encourage clients to work with a dedicated patient advocate to jot down any symptoms, concerns, or questions. This written record can be a helpful reference during the appointment, ensuring that all concerns are addressed; 
- Authorization: Facilitating in advance obtaining necessary authorizations and consents, minimizing any administrative hassles during the visit; and 
- Health advocacy: Consider having a healthcare advocate accompany the client, especially when dealing with complex health conditions. This advocate can ensure that all relevant information is communicated clearly and that the client’s concerns are heard and addressed.

3.  Communication and follow-up
- Clear communication: Emphasize the importance of open communication between clients, healthcare providers, and the family office staff if so desired. Encourage clients to articulate their concerns without hesitation; and 
- Post-appointment follow-up: Design a system for post-appointment follow-ups, ensuring that prescribed treatments are being followed and that additional tests or consultations are scheduled promptly.

4.  Holistic health management
- Collaborative approach: Foster collaboration between healthcare providers, patient advocates, therapists, and nutritionists. A holistic approach to health management can significantly enhance the client's overall wellbeing; and 
- Wellness programs: Implement wellness initiatives, including regular health check-ups, mental health support, and fitness programs. These proactive measures can prevent potential health issues, aligning with preventive healthcare.

5. Technology integration
- Telemedicine services: Learn about and explore telemedicine services and options for routine follow-ups or non-emergency consultations. This saves time and ensures continuous monitoring of the client’s health; and 
- Health apps: Recommend and integrate reliable health apps that allow clients to monitor their vital signs, medications, and appointments. These apps can facilitate real-time data sharing with healthcare providers.

Conclusion
The key to exemplary healthcare management in family offices and HNW advisory lies in meticulous planning, clear communication, and a proactive, holistic approach, usually, if not always, supported by experts in that space by experienced patient advocates. By embracing these principles, clients can experience a seamless healthcare journey, enhancing their overall quality of life and wellbeing. Through this commitment to comprehensive care, family offices and high net worth advisors can genuinely make a difference in the lives of their clients, fostering trust and ensuring peace of mind.