Random Thoughts

Technology has revolutionized the way veterinary practice’s function. It has enabled veterinarians to provide more efficient and effective care to their patients. Digital medical records, telemedicine, robotics, and new AI features are some ways technology has and is changing the landscape in a veterinary practice. There are so many choices, how is one to decide?

Gone are the days of paper medical records. Digital medical records allow veterinary practices to store patient information electronically, making it easier to access and update. Digital records also reduce the risk of lost or damaged records and can be shared easily with other veterinary professionals and pet parents when needed. Because we store digitally, we also must remember to protect digitally. How good is your backup protocol and does it include all it should?

Telemedicine has become increasingly popular in veterinary practice over the last couple of years, out of necessity. It enables veterinarians to consult with clients and diagnose and treat patients remotely. This is particularly helpful for patients that are difficult to transport or for clients that live in remote areas. With telemedicine, veterinary professionals can quickly and easily provide advice to clients and recommend treatments. The concept of parking lot service also took our telemedicine in a new direction, to continue to communicate with pet owners not in the room. This is also the case for practices that employ drop-off opportunities. Think about remote communication to the pet parent during an exam. Don’t miss the chance to get more information from that parent while you are examining. Even a phone call, doesn’t have to be video, can be very effective.

Mobile apps can be an essential tool for veterinary professionals. These apps offer a wide range of features, from tracking patients' health records to supplying dosage calculators and medical calculators. Mobile apps also help veterinary professionals stay up to date with the latest developments in veterinary medicine. Just make sure the app you choose fits into the rest of your technology and your goals.

Technology is also enabling veterinary professionals to diagnose and treat patients more effectively. Advanced imaging tools such as X-rays, ultrasound, and CT scans allow veterinarians to identify and diagnose conditions more quickly and accurately. Additionally, wearable technology could be used to monitor patients remotely, allowing veterinary professionals to track patients' vital signs and other important health indicators.

Robotics is another technology that we will see in veterinary practice. Robotic surgery allows for more precise and less invasive procedures, resulting in faster recovery times for patients. Additionally, robots can be used to perform tasks such as cleaning and sanitizing, as we have seen in human facilities, freeing up veterinary professionals to focus on patient care. The revolution of Artificial Intelligence is a bit robotic. A robot on the computer can do all sorts of things. Just remember, robots of any kind started with a human. It should be used as a tool, not a replacement.

In conclusion, technology is transforming the way veterinary practices operate. Digital medical records, telemedicine, mobile apps, diagnostic tools, and robotics are just a few examples of the ways technology is improving patient care and making veterinary practice more efficient. By embracing these technologies, veterinary professionals can provide the best possible care to their patients while also improving their own workflows and operations. The key is getting the right combination for your business.