How Livewell Supports Their FLDVMs
How Livewell Supports Their FLDVMs
Dr. Kienan Gold, Livewell Animal Hospital of Huntersville
Specialty consults have changed the quality of care that I offer to my clients and patients. Before starting a Livewell, I had an interest in oncology, but had limited tools to support my patients who were diagnosed with cancer. Our specialty consults have changed that. Since starting a Livewell, I have focused on that passion and am able to perform a variety of cancer-related treatments within my facility—ranging from chemotherapy, Stelfonta, and Oncept vaccines to better discussions with my clients about all of their options. These consultations are not generic: they are a two-way relationship that is individualized to each patient. There is wonderful follow-up and adjustments are made for each patient based on their response to treatments. I had no idea that I would grow so much in the spectrum of care that I can offer my patients. Our consultation options include oncology, dermatology, internal medicine, and emergency/critical care.
My most rewarding cases and favorite patient relationships have been formed through these partnerships. I had a case that received an abdominal ultrasound, two surgeries by a board-certified surgeon and chemotherapy- all within Mission practices. I am able to follow up more effectively with my patients and am part of the process, instead of sending them to an unfamiliar location.
There have been too many times in my career when I needed support from a referral, only to find out that my client had a bad experience. They may have had too long of a wait, an overly expensive treatment, or poor bedside manner. Keeping specialty services within my hospital has not only helped us grow, but it has improved my patient care and trust with my clients.
In addition to our specialty consultations, we also have the opportunity to refer patients for care within our local region. While I perform oncology/chemotherapy, there are local practices in my area that provide orthopedic surgery, ultrasound, exotic animal medicine, endoscopy, boarding, physical rehabilitation and holistic care. This variety of special care allows us to build each other up and provide support to grow in areas that we are interested in.
I believe that part of what drives a veterinarian to take on the adventure of starting a Livewell practice is a desire to grow and challenge themselves. Partnering with Mission not only brings support for professional growth through this new practice but also allows for lifelong learning through continuing education opportunities. Since starting a Livewell, I have attended continuing education courses (oncology and cardiology) in order to deepen my knowledge through our own specialists. These courses were live, online courses that were convenient to attend in my hospital. There is a comfort in attending these courses within our network, and a familiarity that fosters genuine learning. I am able to use those skills to practice great medicine in my practice.
I was also able to attend leadership education through Mission. This course helped me grow in areas that I was not previously educated in, such as how to run a business, how to hold effective team meetings and what metrics matter for me. These education sessions helped me hit the ground running with my team.
I have found that starting a Livewell practice has made me a better veterinarian in many ways. I believe that the resources available to me within our network have allowed me to practice care in a way that I did not know was possible.
