Corporate relocation can be a difficult process when a transferee’s family is involved. However, those with children who have special needs can face additional challenges. Companies with employees in this situation should urge them to identify any concerns with their relocation management company early in the process.

If a transferee’s health insurance benefits are changing, it is important that those changes are reviewed to ensure all previously covered relevant treatments fall under new policies. If not, companies may choose to adjust the employee’s relocation benefits to cover those additional items.

Transferees should also ensure they have copies of all of their child’s medical and school information. This includes medical records and test results as well as school transcripts and most recent Individualized Education Plan. If the IEP is not current, transferees should ask that it be updated so the next school district will have the best information on which to develop a new plan in keeping with local policies and educational standards.

It is also important for parents to personally speak with the educational institutions beforehand to make sure that they are aware of what their child’s issues and needs are. This can include visiting the school and meeting with those who run the special education programs. Familiarity may help the transferee feel better that their child is in good hands. Transferees can also ask their child’s current instructors to write a letter to the new teachers.

In the time leading up to the transfer, employees should ensure they have an adequate supply of medications on-hand, since it may take time to arrange appointments with specialists in a new location. Asking for local referrals prior to the transfer can help speed up the process.

Transferees will need to develop relationships with medical personnel in the new area. Finding a new pediatric doctor, in addition to other specialized physicians, can help make the transition easier. Locating qualified individuals as quickly as possible will provide a level of comfort to relocating parents.

Finally, seeking out support groups or other parents of families in similar situations can help the transferee and their family settle down. Having others to connect with in the new location can make the transition much easier on a personal level.

Filed under: Domestic Relocation Services