Hospital Policies
Welcome!
We are so excited you are interested in becoming a new client of Paws in Paradise Animal Hospital! Please take a moment to review our policies and procedures. At the end of each policy, please acknowledge that you have read and understand said policy then complete the form by signing at the bottom
Expectations
● What to expect from us:
Our motto states:
“In everything we do, we believe in building lasting, meaningful relationships. We do this through advocating for those that cannot do so themselves. Here, we treat your pet like family”.
This means we believe in providing the highest quality of care for your pets, which often includes conducting advanced diagnostics to aid us in treating and caring for your pet. Along with that, we maintain the highest standards of client communication so that you understand every step of the way. Our promise to you is to always be transparent, keeping with the highest standards of professionalism and veterinary care.
● Our expectations of you:
We hope to provide you with excellent care and client satisfaction so you leave with a smile on your face! In return, we expect our clients to take an active role in the care and management of their pets. This includes providing timely and accurate information and medical records, promptly replying to communication, and compliance with veterinary recommendations and treatment plans. We understand that oftentimes when dealing with a sick pet, emotions can surface and tensions can rise. We understand this comes from a place of fear and love, however, we also expect our entire team to be treated with respect. We have a Zero Tolerance Bullying Policy at Paws in Paradise Animal Hospital and if anyone is determined to be in violation they will be asked to find veterinary services elsewhere.
Veterinary-Client-Patient-Relationship (VCPR)
The veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR) is the basis for interaction among veterinarians, their clients, and their patients and is critical to the health of animals. A VCPR is achieved when the following conditions are met:
● The veterinarian has assumed the responsibility for making clinical judgments regarding the health of the patient and the client has agreed to follow the veterinarians' instructions.
● The veterinarian has sufficient knowledge of the patient to initiate at least a general or preliminary diagnosis of the medical condition of the patient. This means that the veterinarian is personally acquainted with the keeping and care of the patient by virtue of a timely examination of the patient by the veterinarian, or medically appropriate and timely visits by the veterinarian to the operation where the patient is managed.
● The veterinarian is readily available for follow-up evaluation or has arranged for the following: veterinary emergency coverage, and continuing care and treatment.
● The veterinarian provides oversight of treatment, compliance, and outcome.
● Patient records are maintained.
A VCPR is required in order for us to provide medical care and recommendations, provide vaccinations, and fulfill prescription requests. A physical examination of your pet is required at minimum every 12 months to maintain an active VCPR.
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Standard of Care Policy
Veterinary Standards of Care (SOC) are the protocols decided on for procedures performed in a facility, hospital, or clinic. Standards of care set the level of treatment and care afforded to your pet. SOCs improve the safety and outcome of procedures such as anesthesia, surgery and treatment. These are typically decided upon by the attending veterinarian.
At Paws in Paradise Animal Hospital, Standards of Care are decided upon by the Chief of Medicine and Chief of Surgery and maintained at the highest levels. Quarterly meetings are held with all practicing veterinarians of the clinic to review updates in gold standard care coming out of leading research in the industry. It is our intention to assure the clients of Paws in Paradise Animal Hospital that even when unseen, we maintain the highest of standards.
Prescription Medication Policy
Prescription medications are an integral part of care for your pet. This not only includes any medications needed when your pet is sick, but also monthly parasite preventatives, dewormers, and prescription diets. In order for your pet to receive prescription medications from Paws in Paradise Animal Hospital, an active VCPR (see our VCPR policy) must be maintained.
Additionally, we have negotiated the best prices possible for our in-house medications and online pharmacy. This allows us to efficiently provide prescription medications and more importantly to monitor the quality of the products being prescribed. Therefore, Paws in Paradise Animal Hospital will NOT be approving any prescription requests sent from a third party online pharmacy.
Financial Policy
At Paws in Paradise Animal Hospital, we are dedicated to providing the highest Standard of Care for your pet. For us to maintain that level of excellence, payment is due at time of treatment.
Most of our veterinary services including vaccinations, routine check ups, and prescription medications are straight forward in their cost. However, care for a sick or injured patient can be varied, involved, or unexpected often resulting in increased financial requirements. We believe that a clear understanding of the financial policy in advance of this type of treatment helps relieve some of the anxiety you may feel in these situations.
Care of Sick or Injured Pets
An initial examination, assessment and if needed stabilization of your pet is the first step in an urgent and emergent situation. Following, a treatment plan will be presented meeting all the requirements of the Paws in Paradise Animal Hospital Standards of Care. A written estimate of expected costs for procedures will also be presented. The estimate will be given as a range based on required diagnostic tests, length of hospital stay and procedures to be performed. While the initial diagnostic workup is known, further tests and procedures necessary based on the preliminary test results may not be.
The written estimate will be reviewed with you thoroughly by a team member after which you will be asked to sign a “consent for treatment” form. This form indicates your informed consent for the proposed treatment plan of your pet as well as your understanding of the financial costs. A deposit equal to the low range of the estimate is required for all patients being admitted to the hospital for care.
Oftentimes a change in your pet’s condition occurs after admission to the hospital creating the need for an alternate strategy in treatment. The cost of services can vary based on the progression and subsequent treatment of your pet’s condition. Our client care team will provide updates regarding current and expected costs for any further treatments. While we strive to make these updates BEFORE additional cost is incurred, in emergency situations we will be forced to provide care PRIOR to informing you.
Methods of Payment
Accepted methods of payment: cash, debit, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Care Credit, and Scratchpay. Please note that we are required to charge taxes for designated products and services in accordance with the Florida Department of Revenue.
We also work closely with pet insurance companies. If you maintain insurance coverage on your pet, please advise our client care team upon arrival.
Financing
Paws in Paradise Animal Hospital does not provide financing for any products, services, or goods. Care Credit and Scratchpay financing services are accepted and our client service representatives can assist you in applying for financing. Approval of financing generally is confirmed soon after application, allowing timely progression of your pet’s care.
If you have any questions or concerns about our financial policy, please contact the office manager at 850-909-0130 or talk to one of our client service representatives during your visit.
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