Does the owner have the right to chose destination of referral?

Re: Does the owner have the right to chose destination of referral?

Hannah Wynne Richards — Tue, 15 Jul 2014 11:15:51 GMT

Agree with everyone else. You can guide, but not refuse a request for a specific referral. Matters of Prof Con should be dealt with by the proper authority Royal College

Wynne

Re: Does the owner have the right to chose destination of referral?

Sammy82 — Tue, 15 Jul 2014 11:10:56 GMT

As our clients are the paying customer they have, and should have, the right to see the vet they prefer to see. You should guide them and help them, as always, to make an informed decision. If I am not mistaken patients even have this choice under the NHS!

If you are that worried about the behaviour/professional standard of the referral practice, you should let the RCVS know.

Re: Does the owner have the right to chose destination of referral?

Bob Russell — Tue, 15 Jul 2014 10:46:52 GMT

I guide, suggest and recommend! I note these thoroughly but ultimately owners decide.

Sometimes they regret, sometimes I am pleasantly surprised!

Re: Does the owner have the right to chose destination of referral?

Nicola Lawlor — Tue, 15 Jul 2014 10:16:46 GMT

I think you can only guide the client but ultimately it is their choice where their pet is seen. Obviously you need to be careful what you are saying to clients about this practice though in case word gets out and legal action follows. As above, if you are that worried by what is going on then contact the RVCS to discuss. On the other hand you could also perhaps ring or email the practice and address your concerns with them and give the chance to put things right too. Decent people will listen to a well worded bit of feedback even if that is negative.

Re: Does the owner have the right to chose destination of referral?

James Laidlaw — Tue, 15 Jul 2014 09:35:06 GMT

You could try speaking to Prof. con if you feel they've acted outside of the code of conduct? They might have more specific information about this type of request/situation too.