Which of the following is a key component of practice resilience and continuity planning?

• A. Prolonged vacation without coverage.
• B. Succession/contingency planning.
• C. Denying client communications.
• D. Avoidance of professional development.

Answer: (B)

Resilience in practice means ensuring clients receive timely, reliable service even when the usual practitioner isn’t available. A core part of that is succession and contingency planning: setting up a clear plan for who steps in, how decisions are made, and how communications are maintained if someone is temporarily or permanently unavailable. This involves documenting essential processes, cross-training team members, designating backup roles, and establishing who has authority and how to reach them. When a solid succession/contingency plan is in place, deadlines for filings, responses, and client inquiries stay on track, risks are reduced, and regulatory and ethical obligations are protected—even during vacations, illness, or turnover.

In contrast, actions like taking a prolonged vacation without coverage create gaps in service; denying client communications breaches professional duties; and avoiding ongoing professional development reduces the ability to adapt to changes and maintain high standards.