AAPM&R National Grand Rounds: Life Care Planning-Session Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this video, a group of professionals discusses the field of life care planning, emphasizing its significance and highlighting its alignment with the expertise of physiatrists. Life care planning is described as a systematic method for determining the future care needs and associated costs for individuals with chronic or permanent medical conditions. The panel, consisting of Dr. Smith, Dr. Gonzalez, and David Hausstein, shares their personal experiences and insights into the discipline.<br /><br />Dr. Gonzalez, a pioneer in the field, established the American Academy of Physician Life Care Planners to support and elevate the discipline. He highlighted the role of physiatrists in providing a strong medical foundation for life care plans, contrasting this with the predominant presence of non-physician professionals in the field.<br /><br />The process of life care planning involves reviewing medical records, examining the individual, and calculating life expectancy and lifetime costs associated with their required care. Essential components of a life care plan include diagnostic conditions, future care requirements, cost analysis, and a detailed report with conclusions.<br /><br />The panelists encourage interested physiatrists to explore life care planning due to its alignment with their skills in rehabilitation medicine and its potential to offer satisfying, well-compensated work that enhances patient care. The importance of certifications and continuous education is also stressed, along with the need for perseverance and resilience in the legal aspects of the role. Resources like the American Academy of Physician Life Care Planners are recommended for support and further education.

Keywords

life care planning

physiatrists

chronic medical conditions

American Academy of Physician Life Care Planners

medical foundation

future care needs

cost analysis

certifications

rehabilitation medicine