Strategy
Enhancing Healthcare Decision-Making: Harnessing Online Resources For Family Offices, HNW Advisors

This is the ninth in a series about the ways HNW individuals should think about healthcare.
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:
In today's rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, staying
well-informed is critical for family offices and high net worth
advisors who seek to safeguard their clients' health and
well-being. With technological advances, online resources have
become invaluable tools for accessing up-to-date healthcare
information, staying abreast of medical innovations, and making
well-informed decisions. This article explores the benefits of
leveraging online resources for healthcare and highlights some
relevant references from the last five years to support adopting
these tools.
1. The evolving role of family offices and HNW advisors
in healthcare
Family offices and HNW advisors play a significant role in
managing the financial affairs of affluent individuals and
families. While their primary focus has always been wealth
management, their responsibilities have extended to healthcare
advisory. A comprehensive approach to wealth management
recognizes healthcare decisions that can impact financial
wellbeing. Online resources can help advisors gain valuable
insights into the healthcare industry's intricacies.
2. The power of online health information
The internet has democratized access to healthcare information,
allowing individuals and advisors alike to educate themselves on
various health topics. Reliable websites such as the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health
Organization (WHO) are authoritative sources for health-related
statistics, disease prevention guidelines, and global health
updates.
Moreover, platforms like PubMed and Google Scholar provide access to an extensive database of medical literature, allowing advisors to keep abreast of the latest research and evidence-based practices. For instance, research on medical breakthroughs, emerging therapies, and promising healthcare investments can inform advisors' recommendations.
3. Healthcare technology and digital health
Digital health technologies have transformed the healthcare
landscape, with various innovative solutions changing how medical
services are delivered. Online platforms and mobile health apps
empower patients and clients to monitor their health, track
chronic conditions, and receive virtual consultations. For family
offices, understanding the potential of digital health
technologies is essential for making informed decisions about
healthcare investments and related financial planning.
4. Data-driven healthcare decision-making
Data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) have emerged as
powerful tools in healthcare decision-making. Online resources
that aggregate and analyze vast amounts of health-related data
can provide valuable insights into trends, risk factors, and
predictive models. Family offices and HNW worth advisors can
utilize such resources to understand health risks, anticipate
medical costs, and design personalized healthcare strategies for
their clients.
5. Telemedicine and remote care
The Covid-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telemedicine,
making remote care a standard practice for many healthcare
providers. Online telehealth platforms offer secure video
consultations, remote monitoring, and prescription services,
enabling clients to access medical expertise from the comfort of
their homes. Understanding telemedicine's potential benefits and
challenges can help advisors guide their clients toward the most
suitable healthcare options.
Conclusion:
In the ever-evolving world of healthcare, family offices and high
net worth advisors must embrace online resources to make informed
decisions for their client's well-being. The vast array of online
information empowers advisors to stay updated on medical
advancements, leverage data-driven insights, and understand the
potential of healthcare technologies. By harnessing these
resources, advisors can offer comprehensive healthcare advisory,
ensuring their clients receive the best care while preserving
their financial stability.