Source: AAHA
The AAHA One Health Guidelines provide Veterinary practices with strategies to strengthen collaboration between veterinary and human healthcare teams, improving outcomes for both patients and families. The guidelines outline when and how veterinarians should reach out to other healthcare professionals, key considerations regarding HIPAA compliance, and ways to build cross-disciplinary relationships.
A One Health system recognizes broader client challenges such as financial hardship, transportation limits, or personal health issues that may impact animal care. It also supports Veterinary and human health professionals by reducing burnout, moral distress, and compassion fatigue. The framework emphasizes asking key questions about urgency, documentation, and follow-up when considering outreach, as well as creating community connections through educational activities and joint initiatives. By working with physicians, social workers, and policymakers, veterinarians can promote inclusive, equitable, and holistic healthcare that addresses social, economic, and environmental factors affecting families, ultimately creating healthier communities for both people and animals.