Advancements in technology have made veterinary medicine very different than it was 10-20 years ago.

And now, the 2020 pandemic has fostered faster adoption of technologies such as telemedicine.

It can all seem a little overwhelming to keep up with, since technology changes rapidly. But it’s also very exciting. These advancements allow you to practice, share information, and stay in touch with clients like never before.

Since tech-savvy Millennials are now the largest pet-owning population in the US, it pays to keep up with the times. You’ll have to choose what’s right for your individual practice, but some of the technologies you could incorporate include…

Cloud Technology

Patient record keeping has largely moved from paper to digital. And now, instead of just having that information stored on the server in your practice, there are options to use cloud storage.

Here are a few of the advantages that cloud-based software offers over server-based software…

• You can access information from any device, including desktop, phone, tablet, etc., even without software installation. This means you could check tomorrow’s schedule while at home, or access a patient’s medical history remotely if you are called out for an emergency.

• Data is backed up to the cloud. So there’s no chance of losing records.

• Information sharing is easier. For example, giving access to patient records to a specialist.

• The technology is secure. While it’s natural to feel some reservation over the fear of information being hacked, cloud technology is advancing all the time and this form of data storage (from the right providers) is generally considered very secure. Some providers claim it is more secure than in-house servers.

• Upgrades are automatic much of the time, so you don’t have to do anything on your end or even think about it.

• Additional, in-demand options like online scheduling or automated SMS messages are available. These things are in-demand right now for many businesses, so some clients will seek out vets that offer these modern features and conveniences.

Telemedicine

Telemedicine is a hot and widely debated topic in veterinary medicine. But no matter where you stand on the issue, it’s hard to deny that telemedicine is becoming more prevalent and more in-demand by clients.

The COVID-19 pandemic has certainly given telemedicine a “boost,” with many states in the US changing their laws on telemedicine and allowing the technology to be more widely utilized during social distancing. 

Some of these laws may go back to their original status once the need for social distancing is over. But some experts speculate that this is our “new normal”—that consumers will be so used to this new way of doing things, it will be difficult to go back.

This service may especially be in-demand from pet-loving Millennials, who often want to be very involved in their dog or cat’s care.

Telemedicine is still evolving, and its uses can vary between veterinary practices. When choosing the type of service you would like to offer, here are some things to consider…

• What are the laws regarding telemedicine in your state or location? No matter how good your intentions in wanting to provide telemedicine services, it’s always critical to follow the laws in your jurisdiction. Watch for changes and updates to these laws, too.

• How will you use telemedicine? Will it be just for informational consults, such as nutritional consults or an in-depth discussion of a pet’s already-diagnosed medical condition so the client can better understand it? Or will you use the service to do remote consults for medical issues (of course, with the option to recommend the client bring their pet to a vet in person if needed)?

• When will you offer consults? During office hours, or after hours, too?

• What technology or program will you use?

• How will you tell clients about this new service? And will you offer it only to existing clients, or to potential new clients, too?

• How much will you charge for a consult? Will price vary depending on the type of consult or time of the day (or night)? If the client does end up bringing their pet in for a visit based on your recommendation, will the cost of the telemedicine consult be applied toward the fee for the in-person appointment?

• Would it make sense to outsource telemedicine? There are companies that offer after-hours services—so you can have the night off from answering phone calls, but still have a number for your practice that clients can call.

Apps

One type of app currently in use is an app for the veterinary practice, where owners can input information about their pet, see their upcoming appointments and their pet’s medical history, set reminders for medications, and even receive birthday wishes on their pet’s birthday!

There are also apps out there specifically for storing a pet’s medical history, so an owner can easily have that information available in the event that they see a new veterinarian, go to an emergency vet hospital, or need to pull up their pet’s vaccine history for boarding or grooming.

App technology is evolving, and this is one way to help clients be involved in their pet’s medical care and potentially bond them to your practice.

Technology is always evolving. Next week, we’ll feature more high-tech gadgets and services that can be incorporated into veterinary practices. Stay tuned!

Written by: Dr. Tammy Powell, DVM