Occasionally, we get an animal-owner reader response (that isn’t spam) to one of our posts <Link>. We’re sharing it here.
Reader comments from AHD post on website
As a pet owner I find that my costs at the vet have tripled and the time I see the vet is now about 10 minutes instead of 30 minutes even though the time slotted for me was 30 minutes. I feel that the productivity in the clinic has diminished. I am no longer asked about what my animals eat, what exercise they get, they no longer check temperatures; bottom line is the time with the vet is for a blood draw or vaccine injections. As a consumer I feel that my animals are getting a shortage. I do work in the industry and understand the shortages of vets in the industry but I also think the productivity in the clinics is failing also. With this being said if you bring in AI are you going to push for online Vet appointments and inaccurate diagnoses. We need to bring back the compassion and passion into the industry. Clients will wait for a good vet. AI is not emotional or compassionate.
AHD response
Thank you for your feedback <reader>. You’ve expressed three valid concerns.
1) Time with DVM: If the DVM is using their vet techs to full capacity, less time with the DVM is a potential consequence and yes, everything costs more these days. Value is the most important factor when evaluating costs.
2) Diminishing productivity: share your experience directly with the practice manager or DVM owner. Questions about your pet’s lifestyle are important.
3) AI concerns: automated appointment tech has been available for some time and most don’t require AI. AI will be a tool for veterinary teams and if implemented strategically, should free up vet teams to interface with clients more effectively.