“The life care plan is a dynamic document based upon published standards of practice, comprehensive assessment, data analysis, and research, which provides an organized, concise plan for current and future needs with associated costs for individuals who have experienced catastrophic injury or have chronic health care needs.”
– International Conference on Life Care Planning and the International Academy of Life Care Planners
A life care plan (LCP) is a comprehensive report used to identify and project future medical and related care needs and associated costs for individuals who are injured, disabled, or chronically ill over the appropriate projection period. It also addresses long-term needs and quality-of-life considerations where applicable. Life care plans are most often used in more severe or catastrophic cases. For cases of lesser severity, a medical cost projection may be appropriate
Helpful For:
Plaintiff and Defense Attorneys, Personal Injury Attorneys, Medical Malpractice cases, Workman’s Compensation cases
When to use:
Moderate/severe injury cases, requirement of legal document for ongoing future medical expenses
The basic outline of the report follows a structure somewhat like this:
General outline of the information about the case
A chronology of the client’s history of health care since injury
A summary of the medical records reviewed for the past medical history
A summary of ongoing care
A summary of the client’s current abilities related to activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs)
Here are some potential injuries that a life care plan can be used for:
The process of putting together a Life Care Plan
Review of associated records related to the person’s medical history and other relevant documents
Detailed interview and evaluation (if possible) with the person injured to gain a better understanding of the individual’s circumstances and functional status
Obtain and review treatment recommendations from relevant medical providers, when available
Research concerning the documented condition, likely future care needs, and case-specific treatment considerations
Recommendations are developed from the available records, provider recommendations, clinical analysis, and supporting research
A comprehensive report outlining the individual’s history, projected future care needs, and associated cost estimates based on the available information
A life care plan may be considered when a more comprehensive analysis of future care needs and costs is necessary
A life care plan can be prepared to outline projected future care needs and costs when a more comprehensive future-damages analysis is needed
A life care plan may be useful when a comprehensive future-care analysis is needed for mediation, arbitration, trial, or claim evaluation
Life care planners may come from a range of licensed healthcare and rehabilitation backgrounds, including:
– Physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, occupational therapists, physical therapists, psychologists, physician assistants, rehabilitation counselors, and case managers
The Certified Life Care Planner (CLCP) credential is issued by International Commission on Health Care Certification (ICHCC) and was the first certifying body for life care planners and issued the first life care planner certification examination in March 1996.
ICHCC states that its CLCP certification program is accredited by ANAB Board (ANAB) in July 2024.
Preparation of a Life Care Plan involves a review of available records and case materials relevant to the individual’s medical condition, functional status, and future care needs. Records reviewed may include, when available:
Medical records from treating providers, hospitals, and rehabilitation services
Diagnostic testing and imaging studies
Therapy records (e.g., physical, occupational, or speech therapy)
Itemized medical billing records
Independent medical examination (IME) reports
Deposition transcripts of treating providers or other experts
Vocational or employment records, when relevant
Educational records in pediatric cases
Accident or incident reports
Photographs, videos, or other documentation relevant to the individual’s condition
The specific records reviewed depend on the materials made available and the needs of the case.
Contact us for more details on specifics.
Typical turn around time is 30 days. Rush reports are available 2 weeks based on availability and severity of the case.
Reach out to us to help you decide which is right for you!