Dissatisfied with Veterinary Care

[Escalla]

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This topic came up during one of my interviews last year and it really through me for a loop as to how to properly answer it. I haven't been able to find much on this and was wondering if anyone knew the proper protocol for taking action against a vet that you felt provided inadequate care. A botched procedure being the first that comes to mind as an example.

So assuming you are still unsatisfied with the response of the vet (or practice owner if applicable) after explaining your issue, what do you think would be the course of action from the viewpoint of an owner?

Thanks in advance for your input. 🙂

 

[teaparty]

http://www.arvetboard.com/sgvetboard/complaints.asp

 

[Minnerbelle]

From the viewpoint of the average American client, any combination of the following:

Second opinion/necropsy
Civil law suit
Board complaint
Bad review on yelp, angie's list, etc...
Complaint with the BBB
Demand a refund
Spread the word to everyone you know

Are any/all of these appropriate? Maybe, maybe not depending on the situation. Does it matter? In my opinion no. It's a free and capitalist country, the client can do any of those and you can't stop them (unless it's outright slander or whatever else you call it in which case you can file for a cease and desist order). They can sue and file a law suit all they want regardless of whether or not they have a legit claim. They might not win, but they can make your life miserable anyway. As the doc, you can try to minimize the chance that any of the above will happen with good communication, but that's about it. Make sure you have good professional liability coverage including representation for board complaints.

 

[Lissarae06]

From the viewpoint of the average American client, any combination of the following:

Second opinion/necropsy
Civil law suit
Board complaint
Bad review on yelp, angie's list, etc...
Complaint with the BBB
Demand a refund
Spread the word to everyone you know

Are any/all of these appropriate? Maybe, maybe not depending on the situation. Does it matter? In my opinion no. It's a free and capitalist country, the client can do any of those and you can't stop them (unless it's outright slander or whatever else you call it in which case you can file for a cease and desist order). They can sue and file a law suit all they want regardless of whether or not they have a legit claim. They might not win, but they can make your life miserable anyway. As the doc, you can try to minimize the chance that any of the above will happen with good communication, but that's about it. Make sure you have good professional liability coverage including representation for board complaints.

👍 Excellent answer as usual Minnerbelle!