Money.
Money dictates many things in most of our lives. This is probably
the most frustrating part of veterinary medicine for many
clients and veterinarians. Quality veterinary care is getting
more and more expensive. Veterinary medicine is constantly
advancing and more options are available to pet owners. Cats
can have kidney transplants, MRI is available, dialysis, ACL
(knee) repairs, total hip replacements, ventilators and oxygen
support to name a few of the diagnostics and procedures available
today for pets. If it is available for humans, then you can
bet it probably can be done for your pet. The problem is most
of us humanoids have medical insurance which makes health
care possible for us to afford.
Emergency
clinics operate differently from general day practices, as
many of the recommendations can get very costly. Estimates
for care are presented routinely in the ER clinic so pet owners
can make informed decisions as the payment is out of pocket
and expected at the time of service. Some day-practices offer
payment plans as they have a relationship with the pet owners,
which can help with some of the financial stress. Unfortunately,
veterinary hospitals are businesses and have to generate money
to stay open and be available for our pets. Again, most things
come down to money.
Many
people are faced with difficult decisions for their beloved
pets because of financial limitations. I do not meet many
people where cost of treatment is of no concern. "What is
this going to cost?" is the most common question I am asked.
If I were not a veterinarian I would be asking the same question.
So now we know how expensive it is to have pets and to take
care of their health. I have a few recommendations to consider
if you are a pet owner or are thinking of adopting a pet.
Pet
insurance is available in the United States. I went to a meeting
put on by the insurance companies in 1999 to educate veterinarians
regarding the new pet insurance. I remember thinking to myself
… there is no way I would buy this for my pet. It was too
expensive and too many limitations were present. It seemed
like a good deal for the insurance company only. Sound familiar?
The good news is that improvements have been made and pet
insurance is now a reasonable option in my opinion. If I were
not a veterinarian, I would have pet insurance. No question.
Over
the years I have not met one pet owner that was unhappy with
the pet insurance. Customer service has been excellent and
the insurance has helped offset expenses. Many policies are
available. You can choose between several different options.
Typically, policies provide routine health care as well as
heartworm tests and preventative treatments, vaccines and
dental care. A simple claim form can be submitted and the
insurance company reimburses the owner. Insurance can be helpful,
but payment is still expected at time of service and reimbursement
can take time.
Another
option is available at some veterinary hospitals. Care Credit
is a company that helps people pay for medical expenses. It
is basically a credit card for pet care. There is an interest
free time period and Care Credit pays your bill and then you
pay them back. This can be a great option as long as you pay
off the bill before the interest kicks in. You qualify in the
same manner as for a credit card. Online enrollment is available.
You need to check with your veterinarian to see if their office
accepts Care Credit.