What is a Life Care Plan?
A life care plan is a comprehensive document prepared by medical and rehabilitation experts that outlines all the care, services, and equipment a catastrophically injured person will need throughout their lifetime. It serves as the foundation for calculating future damages in personal injury cases.
Components of a Life Care Plan
A thorough life care plan typically includes:
- ✓Projected medical treatment and surgeries
- ✓Prescription medications
- ✓Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
- ✓Psychological counseling
- ✓Assistive devices and equipment
- ✓Home modifications
- ✓Attendant care and nursing services
- ✓Transportation needs
- ✓Vocational rehabilitation
Who Creates Life Care Plans?
Life care plans are developed by certified life care planners, often nurses or rehabilitation specialists with extensive training. They work with the victim's treating physicians and specialists to project future needs based on medical evidence and prognosis.
Why Life Care Plans Are Essential
In catastrophic injury cases, future damages often exceed past damages by a factor of 10 or more. A well-documented life care plan ensures that settlements or verdicts account for all lifetime needs, protecting victims from financial hardship as their needs evolve.