Seize the opportunity presented by telehealth

New AVMA Telehealth Resource Center provides the needed tools

With the rise of digital communications in nearly every industry and sector, telehealth has emerged as a prime opportunity for veterinarians to deliver health information and care to clients via technology. To position you and your practice for success in the digital age, the AVMA has created an online Telehealth Resource Center with a suite of educational and practical tools for you and your team.

Located in the Economics & Practice section of our website, the new Telehealth Resource Center will help you take advantage of the convenience and other benefits afforded by modern technology, while protecting the high-quality veterinary medical care you already provide to patients.  It provides comprehensive information on the opportunities and challenges of telehealth. You can learn about:

• Telehealth Basics, including key definitions and frequently asked questions
• Telehealth and the Veterinary Client Patient Relationship (VCPR)
• Steps to Implement Telemedicine Services in Your Practice
• Telemedicine Service Models

You also can review a case study demonstrating how one veterinary team used telemedicine to increase client compliance with post-surgical and hospice care recommendations.

Most of these materials are available exclusively to AVMA members, as part of our commitment to connecting members with a full range of programs and services that enhance your opportunities for success.

Embracing new opportunities

Beginning to offer telemedicine services is a great way to embrace new opportunities in the marketplace, an important consideration for all veterinary practice owners.

When implemented properly, telemedicine can benefit patients, animal owners and veterinarians alike. From improving after-hours or hospice care, to making it easier for busy clients to arrange routine checkups and follow-up care, technology offers opportunities to increase access to and utilization of veterinary services, and improve the quality of care for patients.

Wonder what telemedicine services might look like in your clinic? This depends on your own and your clients’ needs and interests. Telemedicine isn’t one-size-fits-all, and the AVMA Telehealth Resource Center will help you customize a program that fits your practice. The Telemedicine Service Models page can give you practical ideas for possible service offerings, and once you’ve decided which services to provide, you can follow the simple Steps to Implement Telemedicine in your practice.

Also, you don’t have to do it alone. There are a variety of vendors that can help you implement telemedicine, and we’ve created a helpful checklist to evaluate and compare possible service providers.

More telehealth tools coming

The AVMA is committed to ensuring our members are well-informed, supported and primed for success, with valuable tools and resources at your fingertips. We’ll continue to build out the Telehealth Resource Center; in fact, we’re already working on additional materials to be released later this year, including practical material you can share with clients. Expect to find telehealth CE courses offered at the 2018 AVMA Convention in Denver as well.

All of these tools will help you and your veterinary team navigate the complex landscape of telemedicine and position yourself for future success. We encourage you to explore the Telehealth Resource Center and start thinking about how telemedicine can enhance your veterinary services.