Life Care Planning

Overview

One of the services Marini & Associates offers is developing long-term comprehensive medical life care plans designed to outline a client's long-term needs including the purpose, frequency, timing and costs of such services. In preparing the plan, treating specialists are consulted for their recommendations regarding prognosis and future treatment. These opinions are then priced at going rates for services and incorporated into the life care plan. The end result is a document which is comprised of a detailed and researched analysis of all services, therapies, adaptive equipment, drugs and supplies, diagnostic/educational needs, recommended aggressive medical treatment, aids for independent living, home modifications and/or renovations, and transportation needs. The analysis comes complete with timelines, replacement items, recommending source and cost analysis. Life care plans are prepared using the same methodology approved by both the educational and certifying body of this specialty.

Standard Procedure in Developing Plans

Typically, once an attorney has contacted our office and preliminarily discussed the merits of their client’s case, we can determine at that time whether or not we may be of assistance. If both parties agree this to be the case, all medical records and available depositions are mailed to one of our offices where we will review the records and subsequently arrange through your office for and in person evaluation of your client generally conducted at their home. Interviews typically take between 2-4 hours depending on the case and clients or their guardians provide further information during this time. Informed consent is signed so our office can communicate with treating specialists for prognosis and recommended future services needs. Following this, the life care plan begins to be developed as consultations occur and costs of services, medications and supplies, assistive technology and therapies are researched. The average length to completion of the plan is generally a minimum of eight weeks after the interview which can be arranged fairly quickly. Delays can occur when treating specialists do not respond to consultative questions in a timely manner. In rare instances we may be able to complete a plan sooner.

Related Services in Life Care Planning

We will develop life care plans for both plaintiff and defense attorneys, insurance companies or families upon request. We can also review or analyze opposing life care plans and either provide verbal feedback about the plan, prepare a short report on the strengths/weaknesses of the plan, or upon request, develop an opposing life care plan. Finally, because life care plans contain a myriad of services, equipment, etc., our office provides free post-settlement assistance in providing further information on where/how to acquire items or services in the plan. (View the sample Life Care Plan)