Source: AAHA
The AAHA Community Care Guidelines help Veterinary practices expand care accessibility, preventing the need to turn patients away or see clients decline care due to limitations. This model focuses on collaborative, family-centered care that utilizes community resources to increase healthcare access. Key strategies include adopting a spectrum-of-care (SOC) approach, mitigating barriers, partnering with nonprofits (e.g., shelters and welfare organizations), and redefining “gold standard” care to be more inclusive and adaptable.
This new standard incorporates various diagnostic and treatment options, ensuring high quality, accessibility, safety, and evidence-based outcomes. Addressing access-to-care challenges can reduce moral distress among practitioners who feel constrained by clients’ financial and logistical limits. To build a community care network, practices should identify local resources, build partnerships, and appoint a community liaison to strengthen collaborations. The ultimate goal is access to care for all, achieved through a diverse range of strategies and community connections.
Read the full story HERE: https://www.aaha.org/resources/2024-aaha-community-care-guidelines-for-small-animal-practice/