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The Case for a Healthcare Advocate, Part II: The Documents You’ll Need
Having copies of the proper paperwork is very important if you are caring for a senior, or for yourself if you have a medical condition
In my previous blog on the need that often arises for a family member to be named a healthcare advocate for your client, I described how securing Healthcare Advocate status is essential for anyone with elderly parents or grandparents since such advocates have the legal authorization to act on seniors’ behalf to help resolve medical situations in a timely and effective way.
Having copies of the proper paperwork is also very important if you are caring for a senior, or for yourself if you have a medical condition. It's easy to do with any word processing program, such as Microsoft Word. Create a document and save it as “Medical and Emergency Data.” The document should contain information such as the names of the seniors, addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, Social Security and Medicare numbers, secondary insurance carrier number, doctors' names and contact information, prescriptions currently being taken, dosages and the name of the pharmacy. It is also important to list all allergies to medications or food and any known health problems. As medications or conditions change over time, simply update the form.
To keep this information accessible, I would recommend purchasing a clear envelope that can be attached to the refrigerator door or other appliance with a magnet or magnetic clip. Keep the Medical and Emergency Data sheet, along with a copy of insurance and Medicare card(s), in this envelope. Other useful information to keep in this envelope might include the discharge papers from any previous hospitalizations. If there is a sudden need for medical assistance, you can just grab the envelope and go.
An even safer and more practical step is to make sure the senior has a copy of this data in their purse or wallet to accommodate any unforeseen circumstances. It goes without saying that the Health Care Advocate should also have a copy of the Medical and Emergency Data form on hand to be on a firm footing with medical authorities at any time, but particularly in the event of an emergency.
About the Author
Rosanne Rogé, R.W. Roge & Co.
Rosanne joined R.W. Rogé & Company, Inc. in January 1995. A CFP, CSA and RFGSM, she is a graduate of C.W. Post - Long Island University's Certificate Program in Financial Planning and the College for Financial Planning Para-Planner Program.
Ms. Rogé is certified by The Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards to use the professional certifications CFP and Certified Financial Planner. She is also a Certified Senior Advisor (CSA); the Society of Certified Senior Advisors is dedicated to providing continuing education that addresses new developments and research concerning seniors. The Society is also committed to promoting the recognition of Certified Senior Advisors as knowledgeable professionals serving seniors.
Ms. Rogé also holds the title of Registered Financial Gerontologist (RFGSM), which she earned "With Distinction" Honors after successfully completing the Comprehensive Examination for the Registered Financial Gerontologist, given by The American Institute of Financial Gerontology (AIFG), in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Ms. Rogé is a Financial Services affiliate of The National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA), the national organization of fee-only planners. Ms. Rogé was elected as an Associate Trustee and a member of the Stewardship Committee of the Jefferson's Ferry Foundation. Jefferson's Ferry is an outstanding life care retirement community on Long Island. Also, Ms. Rogé is a member of the Financial Planning Association (FPA). She previously worked at Cigna Individual Financial Services where for four years she prepared financial plans and analytical projections for Clients. She earned both a Bachelor of Arts (Cum Laude) in Human Relations/Psychology and Associate in Applied Science degrees from Pace University.
In May 2010, Wealth Manager Magazine again named Rosanne Rogé as one of the 50 most influential women in wealth management. Ms. Rogé has held several securities licenses (NASD Series 6, 7 and 63) and is a New York State Life, Accident and Health Insurance licensee. She chairs the Client Services Committee of R. W. Roge & Co. and serves on the Investment Management Committee.
In May 2008, Investment Advisor magazine named Rosanne Rogé as one of the "25 Most Influential People in and around the Financial Services Profession." Her advice is frequently sought after by the press and media. She has been quoted in The Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg Personal Finance Magazine, Investment Advisor Magazine, Fortune Magazine, Newsday and USA Today.
Rosanne is also co-author to the newly released book, The Banker and the Fisherman: Lessons in Life, Happiness and Wealth for the 21st Century.
Rosanne is a native New Yorker and has a passion for dogs, flowers, nature and sailing.
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