A common factor in our companion animal complaints involves casting doubt on the competence or treatment decisions of another veterinarian or practice.

Such views may be shared with clients directly, or in front of them, and even in public spaces. Whether or not this is intentional, it can quickly spiral out of control, causing damage to the way the Public perceive you, your colleagues and the profession.

Through the VPIS lens, some of our most costly claims have resulted from veterinarians casting doubt on the work of their veterinary peers. These costs are not just monetary. They can significantly impact the mental health and well-being of those involved.

As veterinarians, we are obligated under the Veterinary Code of Conduct to “treat colleagues with professionalism and respect; not making malicious or unfounded criticisms that may undermine the public's trust or bring discredit to the profession.”

Trust is hard-earned, easily lost and difficult to re-establish.

Behaviour that undermines teamwork, trust, and morale erodes the working relationship between veterinary clinics and causes long-term problems in providing quality veterinary care for our mutual clients and patients

Dr Michael Millar, DVM, has developed six commandments of professional courtesy for the veterinary profession. The article link at the bottom further explores these commandments, but in brief, they are:

1. Never bad mouth a veterinarian in front of a client – there is never a good reason. This is the most important “Courtesy Commandment.
2. Acknowledge what the other vet did correctly and what you learned from what the other vet has already done
3. Avoid using negative phrases when discussing previous treatments, a patient has received, and instead focus on what your plan is now
4. Explain to the owner why you prefer something different
5. Don’t be afraid to continue treatments that are working
6. If you truly believe another veterinarian has made a mistake, discuss that directly with the veterinarian.

Veterinarians will never agree on everything and that is okay as disagreement is healthy and promotes progress in our profession.

However such disagreements should be conducted respectfully, and preferably not in front of clients.

We should strive to cultivate a culture of accountability, respect, and support where mistakes are viewed as opportunities for learning and growth rather than opportunities for blame.

The last word

Our veterinary profession is a small industry. Many of us share the same motivations for choosing this profession. We need to look after each other and have each other’s backs.

Veterinary staff are currently under enough pressure with their workloads and the demands of the public without the need for an extra layer of stress.

Please remember that everyone does the best they can with what they have available at the time so try not to be too quick to pass judgment.

We recommend that you heed Dr Millar’s advice and follow the 6 commandments.

References

Michael W. Miller, D. (2016, February 6).

‘Are you breaking the 6 commandments of professional courtesy? ‘

Retrieved from Dr Andy Roark: https://drandyroark.com/are-you-breaking-the-6-commandments-of-professional-courtesy/

 Thanks to https://www.vpis.org.nz/ for permission to share