The Foreign Service Journal, March 2003

therefore, be sure to examine policy details related to citizenship of the insured and residency requirements. Moreover, those policies that do pay benefits overseas may have a ceiling on them. A related issue is how most effec- tively to manage the care of a loved one in the United States while assigned abroad. Some policies allow for professional care management to help establish a plan of care for the insured and to coordinate the imple- mentation. Having access to a pro- fessional care coordinator is particu- larly helpful in these situations. During our Foreign Service careers, we have all seen the difficulties imposed by great geographic separation in such cases. Summing up, long-term care coverage is an important tool to assist with specialized care and to protect an individual or family assets. Various insurance plans are available to prepare for and protect oneself against possible LTC needs in order to make the process as smooth as possible and to protect assets. However, the decision requires careful analysis to ensure the best policy for each situation, and that decision is even more difficult for those posted overseas. Fortunately, many LTC products are available. The challenge is finding the right one for you. Retired FSO Stephen H. Thompson is a financial adviser at Legg Mason Wood Walker, Inc., a diversified securities brokerage and financial services firm that is a member of the New York Stock Exchange, Inc., and of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC). He has been an AFSA member for more than 25 years. The views expressed herein are the author’s own. 18 F O R E I G N S E R V I C E J O U R N A L / M A R C H 2 0 0 3 F S F I N A N C E S The issue of long-term care abroad should be considered especially carefully by FS personnel. Your Home on The Hill C AP I TOL H I LL S UI TES In the heart of residential and historic Capitol Hill, offers a selection of spacious accommodations ideal for short or long-term stays. Perfectly located two blocks from the U.S. Capitol and one block from the Capitol South Metro, Capitol Hill Suites is your home on The Hill. • Sliding Scale Government Per Diem Accepted • Daily Complimentary Continental Breakfast • Kitchenette in Every Suite • Walk to shops and restaurants of Pennsylvania Avenue • Walk to Capitol South Metro, direct line to FSI shuttle or Main State Dept. w/o Metro transfer Phone: 202-543-6000 X7671 Or e-mail: joshah.hedrington@starwoodhotels.com