My world has changed, I am a new mom again, though this birth was hard on someone else. Someone furry. We have a new puppy, and I am once again faced with the differences between veterinary and human healthcare.
There is a great video, "Its a Dog's World", that addresses some of these differences...If you are in Bellingham and haven't seen it, you can contact the SJH Education Department to arrange for viewing. I'm getting more info on obtaining the video for others outside our immediate area and will post it later.
How is it different?
Visits to the vet don't feel rushed, the vet takes time and establishes a real rapport with the patient (my little furry girl, Kali). He understands that she is scared and focuses on helping her feel comfortable first of all. He listens to my concerns and answers questions. Her medication says what condition it is for. He talks about future development, and what to expect. He shares his personal philosophy about her care along side other schools of thought. He gives her a treat. It is obvious he truly cares about her and her kind.
How can we incorporate some of the best features of veterinary care into human healthcare?
Slow it down, make sure the patient is comfortable. Establish personal connection with the patient. Ask what the patient needs/wants. Include the 'care team' in the communications. Label medications clearly for lay understanding.
