Strategy

Navigating Healthcare For UHNW Clients: A Global, Domestic Perspective

Brian Dooreck January 4, 2024

Navigating Healthcare For UHNW Clients: A Global, Domestic Perspective

Here is the final article in a series from a firm helping wealthy individuals and families wrestle with healthcare tasks and issues at home and overseas.

This is the 15th and final article in a series of commentaries on the key considerations for healthcare for wealthy individuals and families. The articles reflect how health and wealth management often intersectan area which is attracting growing interest. The author, Brian Dooreck, MD, president, and founder of Executive Health Navigation, continues to examine the crossover of health and wealth. The editors are pleased to share this content; the usual disclaimers apply. Email the editor to respond at tom.burroughes@wealthbriefing.com

For ultra-high net worth individuals, healthcare is not just a matter of necessity; it is a fundamental component of their wealth management strategy. Managing healthcare in their home country and on a global scale is a complex task, and family offices play a crucial role in assisting these clients in navigating this intricate landscape. This article explores how clients can effectively manage their domestic and international healthcare needs.

1. Establishing a comprehensive healthcare plan at home
In their home country, UHNW clients should begin by establishing a comprehensive healthcare plan. This involves selecting the correct primary care physician, specialists, and healthcare facilities. Family offices can help to identify top-tier medical professionals and facilities to ensure that clients have access to the finest healthcare services.

2. Personalized health management
Personalized health management is a critical element of healthcare for these clients. This may include regular check-ups, preventative screenings, and wellness programs tailored to individual needs. Family offices can help coordinate these services to ensure that clients receive proactive healthcare solutions that fit their busy lifestyles.

3. Building a network of medical specialists
Having a network of medical specialists is crucial for complex medical conditions. UHNW clients should work with their family offices to establish relationships with leading specialists who can provide expert consultations and treatment options. This network can be invaluable in addressing rare or severe health conditions.

4. Health data management
Efficient health data management is essential. Family offices can assist clients by organizing and storing their medical records securely, ensuring that comprehensive health information is readily available to medical professionals when needed. This not only streamlines the healthcare process but also improves decision-making.

5. International health services
For global travelers, family offices can help set up international healthcare services. This may include liaising with global medical networks, offering access to quality healthcare abroad, and ensuring that international medical insurance is in place. A consistent level of care, whether at home or abroad, is a priority for these clients.

6. Telemedicine and virtual consultations
In today's digital age, telemedicine and virtual consultations are valuable tools. Family offices can facilitate access to remote healthcare services, allowing clients to consult with medical professionals anywhere. This is especially beneficial for minor health conditions and follow-up appointments.

7. Health security while traveling
Health security during travel is a significant concern for clients. Family offices should provide guidance on travel vaccinations, emergency medical kits, and telemedicine services for international trips. Preparing for health contingencies ensures peace of mind during travels.

8. Estate planning for healthcare
Incorporating healthcare into estate planning is essential. Family offices can assist in setting up healthcare directives, durable powers of attorney, and trusts for healthcare expenses. This ensures that healthcare decisions align with clients' wishes and that funding for medical costs is secure.

Conclusion
UHNW clients require a holistic approach to healthcare management that spans their home country and global travels. Family offices should play a central role in building a comprehensive healthcare plan at home, coordinating personalized health management, establishing networks of medical specialists, managing health data, providing international healthcare services, offering telemedicine solutions, ensuring health security during travel, and integrating healthcare into estate planning. By addressing healthcare needs on a domestic and global scale, UHNW individuals can maintain their wellbeing with confidence and peace of mind.

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