It is amazing how technology has advanced and changed so many aspects of our lives, and medicine is no exception. Medicine is constantly changing and evolving. More accessible advancing technology is a large reason for currently evolving medicine.
One area of medicine that is evolving due to technology is how we can deliver care and information to clients. Telehealth is a newer change in the veterinary world that is helping veterinarians adapt to the changing needs and demands of their clients and provide patient care in a new format. Learn more about veterinary telehealth and how we are implementing this at Continental Animal Wellness Center.
What is Telehealth?
Telehealth is an overarching term encompassing all uses of technology to deliver health information, education, or care remotely. Many categories fall under telehealth, such as; telemedicine, teleadvice, and teletriage. According to the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association), telemedicine involves the use of a tool to exchange medical information electronically from one site to another to improve a patient’s clinical health status. Up until October 2023, telemedicine required a valid veterinary client-patient relationship in order to provide that service. With the approval of SB1053 Arizona veterinarians can now provide telemedicine to non-established clients and patients as long as certain requirements are met.
How Veterinary Telehealth Works
Veterinary medicine is challenging since our patients can not speak to us, and many times, a good hands-on physical exam can not be replaced. Not every case is right for telehealth due to the need to put hands on an animal to lead to the correct diagnosis. Many times animals hide signs of pain and sickness and what they are presented for is only the tip of the iceberg of their medical issues. Telehealth in the veterinary world can be utilized for behavioral issues, monitoring healing wounds, managing post-operative healing, pain management, nutrition consults, quality-of-life discussions, prescription changes, and triage services.
When utilized correctly in the veterinary setting, telemedicine, teleadvice, and teletriage can be a powerful tool to both the client and practitioner in order to provide superior patient care.
Contact Us to Learn More About Telemedicine at CAWC
Your pet may be eligible for telehealth through Continental Animal Wellness Center! Reach out to us today to discuss your pet’s needs and determine the best option for your situation.
