Medical protocols provide the framework for high-quality care.
They ensure the best possible outcomes by promoting evidence-based practices based on scientific research, clinical expertise, and best practices in the field. Clear protocols enable prompt and decisive action in the treatment room and provide benefits in other areas of your business, as well.
In Volume 5 of myVETgroup’s Owner’s Report, we’ll explore three protocol areas for veterinary clinics that will improve patient care, streamline administration, and boost customer satisfaction.
Next-Level Records:
Do you want to give better patient care, enjoy better collaboration, show better compliance, and get more positive outcomes? Going above and beyond the minimum standard of record-keeping requirements will help you do that and more.
Complete and accurate medical records, including thorough histories, treatment plans, diagnostic results, and vaccination records, help us make informed decisions, track progress, and provide appropriate patient care. Moreover, comprehensive record-keeping enables seamless continuity of care, which greatly improves overall health outcomes. Regulatory bodies, like the College of Veterinarians of Ontario, even offer Peer Review of Medical Records (PRMR) to help veterinarians meet an exceptional standard of care.
Not to mention, precise record-keeping is crucial for legal and regulatory compliance as well. Proper documentation safeguards the clinic against potential liabilities and ensures adherence to professional standards. “Just good enough” just isn’t good enough when it comes to something as beneficial as maintaining strict record-keeping protocol.
Leveraging Tech:
Improved outcomes, enhanced efficiency, and a competitive edge – these are just some of the benefits of technological advancements in veterinary care. The latest tech tools impact not only diagnostics and medicine, but practice management and client engagement too.
From imaging technologies to molecular diagnostics and genetic testing, technological advancements allow veterinarians to provide more precise, targeted care. And by empowering veterinary professionals to collaborate efficiently, they can more easily consult with specialists, seek second opinions, and share information. This interdisciplinary collaboration leads to more comprehensive treatment plans.
Tech doesn’t just improve patient care – it’s also improving how we run our practices and engage our patients. Digital tools for scheduling, billing, and inventory management are streamlining administrative tasks. And through digital platforms for appointment scheduling, telehealth consultations, and client communications, our patients’ owners are receiving better care, as well.
Chronic Illness Monitoring:
Chronic illness monitoring plays a crucial role in veterinary care, improving quality of life, and creating strong clinic-client relationships. Does your practice have standard protocols for chronic illness monitoring?
Take hyperthyroidism, for example. As there’s no standard dosing for this condition, you need to monitor the patient to ensure your dosing is effective and without adverse side effects. But does your clinic have clear protocols defining the standard time period of monitoring patients with hyperthyroidism (e.g., three weeks after starting meds, then every 3 months in the first year, then every six months after that)?
By using the most up-to-date guidelines to create standardized protocols for your practice, you will ensure consistent treatment, continuity of care, early detection of complications, and improved quality of life for your patients.
