RE: RCVS to remove requirement to perform a physical exam

Arlo Guthrie — Mon, 23 Jan 2023 11:29:19 GMT

[quote userid="40831" url="~/001/nonclinical/f/life-in-veterinary-practice/32387/rcvs-to-remove-requirement-to-perform-a-physical-exam/178010#178010"]I would also imagine a lot of pressure on vets during the cost of living crisis to prescribe rather than examine as a cheaper way of getting care.[/quote]

I hadn't thought of that. Good point. I wonder.

[quote userid="40831" url="~/001/nonclinical/f/life-in-veterinary-practice/32387/rcvs-to-remove-requirement-to-perform-a-physical-exam/178010#178010"]Although on the flip side, is that better than no care if the owner can't afford it? [/quote]

I think there's big question over what the impact of this will be on animal welfare.

Will there be a massive increase in misdiagnoses, or missed diagnoses? Or will easier, possibly cheaper access to veterinary advice and care improve welfare?

I kind of think there is so little vets can do with a video consult, that they'll mainly be used only for triage and basic parasite control.

But I also think there may be an opportunity to use video calls to forge stronger relationships with clients.

I find it a much better experience being able to see people when talking to them, and now routinely use video calls for business.

RE: RCVS to remove requirement to perform a physical exam

chrysanthemum20 — Fri, 20 Jan 2023 13:40:05 GMT

I can see this putting more pressure on OOH care, that Friday call from the annoying client? Prescribe some medications and instruct them to call the OOH service over the weekend if anything changes. As well as the worry about missing symptoms/unusual presentations meaning missed (and mis-) diagnosis.

I would also imagine a lot of pressure on vets during the cost of living crisis to prescribe rather than examine as a cheaper way of getting care. Although on the flip side, is that better than no care if the owner can't afford it?