Strategy
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 intersect – an 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.