Health Tips and Advice


Plan for the Future

No one ever plans to be sick or disabled. Yet, it's just this kind of planning that can make all the difference in an emergency. By being prepared when the unexpected happens, you'll be in a much better position to give medical, personal, and insurance information when an emergency arises. It can save precious time and help medical professionals in the event your loved one is unable to provide this information.

Steps for Getting Your Affairs in Order

  • Gather everything you can about your income, property, investments, insurance, and savings.
  • Put your important papers and copies of legal documents in one place. You could set up a file, put everything in a desk or dresser drawer, or just list the information and location of papers in a notebook. If your papers are in a bank safe deposit box, keep copies in a file at home. Check each year to see if there's anything new to add.
  • Tell a trusted family member or friend where you put all your important papers. You don't need to tell this friend or family member your personal business, but someone should know where you keep your papers in case of emergency. If you don't have a relative or friend you trust, ask a lawyer to help.
  • Give consent in advance for your doctor or lawyer to talk with your caregiver as needed. There may be questions about your care, a bill, or a health insurance claim. Without your consent, your caregiver may not be able to get needed information. You can give permission in advance to Medicare, a credit card company, your bank, or your doctor. Sometimes you can give your OK over the telephone. Other times you may need to sign and return a form.

Meridian At Home has provided a link (Steps for getting your affairs in order) that is designed to help you and your loved ones organize your efforts and prepare prior to a crisis occurring. Click on the Link to start the process of being more prepared before an emergency occurs, or feel free to call one our Meridian At Home Advisors for more information at 1-800-894-6885. You can also visit our Meridian At Home Video Learning Center to listen to and get advice on "Gathering General Health and Financial Information".


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