From the paper:
Offering and providing an spectrum of care can be difficult but can also provide substantial benefits for all stakeholders in the veterinarian-client-patient relationship. In providing a SoC, veterinarians have a responsibility to provide context for each option, discussing the advantages, disadvantages, and most likely outcomes for each option; the possibilities of favorable and unfavorable outcomes; the likelihood that additional testing or treatment might be needed; the associated costs; and the strength of the supporting evidence.
Veterinarians need to empower owners to choose the care option that best fits their expectations and financial considerations, without making them feel they are failing their pet if the most intensive, most expensive, or most technologically advanced option is not chosen.
Source: JAVMA, October 1, 2021. Link. Fostering a strong partnership with our clients improves the client experience, enhances the impact of care, improves our own professional experience as veterinarians, and, most importantly, improves the health and welfare of our patients.
Practicing and communicating spectrum of care without judgement and with confidence in the options offered increases access to veterinary care and invites clients to make the best decisions for their pets and families.