The development of specialist practices is relatively new and there are certain procedures that need to be followed to make referrals function effectively.

In a recent case a general practice client was simply given the contact numbers for two specialist practices where a specialised diagnostic procedure could be performed.  The specialist chosen by the client assessed the case, recommended surgery rather than the diagnostic test and with the client’s permission proceeded with the procedure.

There was no formal communication (letter or verbal) between the referring veterinarian and the specialist and the client did not express a wish to return to the initiating practice.  The specialist failed to recognise the case as an official referral and did not contact the general practitioner or provide a formal report on the outcome.

While the resultant dispute over ‘poaching’ of clients was categorised by the Board as a matter of ethics and as such was not within its statutory powers to resolve, it did not believe the ethical guideline had been breached and chose not to refer the matter on to the AVA.

The case highlighted the fact that a formal approach to a referral specialist by an attending veterinarian is critical to the effectiveness of the referral process in the veterinary profession.

The AVA has a Code of Practice for Veterinary Specialists (Part C – 111A) which documents the model referral procedure.  Veterinary specialists and general practitioners are encouraged to become aware of the recommended process and initiate it in practice procedures.