The coronavirus pandemic has changed the face of many industries this year and veterinary medicine is no exception. As you plan for the future, you may incorporate telemedicine in your veterinary practice. Let’s examine a few of the key elements to consider.
While telemedicine has been a part of the veterinary health scene for more than a decade, in 2020 veterinary telehealth has seen an upward trend as providers are transitioning toward providing care for their clients through more COVID-safe practices.
According to Forbes, with the FDA lifting requirements on in-person veterinary exams, the telehealth veterinary medicine industry has hit a boom that is not expected to end anytime soon. Daily downloads of virtual vet apps increased by 40% in March 2020, while virtual vet visits on these platforms have seen business increase as much as 170% since the pandemic began.
American Veterinary Medical Association breaks down the differences for the services offered under the overarching umbrella term of telehealth. The rules vary for each as to what is allowed under the established Veterinarian-Client-Patient-Relationship (VCPR) and whether it is categorized as telemedicine, telehealth, tele-advice, or tele-triage. Always confirm your understanding and compliance with these terms.
As you plan for the future, you may incorporate telemedicine in your veterinary practice. Let’s examine a few of the key elements to consider.
Staffing
Staffing is one concern that comes to mind. How will this impact what your team may look like in the future and will your staffing needs change? Might your practice add additional headcount exclusively as telemedicine providers or will you consider shifting a portion of your employees from in-person care to virtual care providers? Will you choose to hire people who are licensed across state lines to allow your practice to broaden its geographical reach of services? One consideration that Today’s Veterinary Business suggests is developing a collaborative relationship with a relief veterinarian who is also able to provide telemedicine services and leverage existing relationships within your practice. If you are considering including telemedicine in your practice, you can look at your current people and think about how they might adapt to these new service offerings. Consult with your legal counsel to confirm compliance with applicable laws and guidelines.
