VN June 2021

Vetnuus | Junie 2021 4 Change is defined as “replace something with something else, especially something of the same kind that is newer or better; substitute one thing for another. Or an act or process through which something becomes different". During the past 15 months of COVID-19, we have experienced a lot of change. People have learned to work fromhome. Companies have learned that they do not need all the office space that previously was essential, as many employees produce the same output when working from home – and this is true for both those who are optimally productive and those who ae not. We have learned that we achieve more when meetings are virtual – not only do people not have to waste time traveling to the meeting venue, but meetings have also become shorter. We have learned to stockpile essential liquids, the ones which are best enjoyed with friends. Telemedicine has become reality and we are told that a large percentage of consultations can actually be done without physically examining the animal. Elsewhere clients are asked to leave the consultation room after a very brief history was taken, and the animal patient is examined in the absence of the owner. Clients expect to be given solid advice over the phone, now more than ever. Regulatory bodies made some very quick changes to rules, allowing veterinarians to do more without actually seeing the patient. Perhaps there will soon be some hybrid form of veterinary practice, where the vet talks to the owner on the phone and watches video clips and photographs, with a veterinary nurse doing home calls to collect some blood samples for analysis in the laboratory to provide the vet with additional information. Author of the “One Minute Manager” series of books, Ken Blanchard, said “Everyone knows that not all change is good or even necessary. But in a world that is constantly changing, it is to our advantage to learn how to adapt and enjoy something better.” What we really need to do is to evaluate all the changes. To stick with the good ones (I love fewer and shorter meetings!), to fine-tune others. To adapt to new ways that do actually produce similar or better results. COVID has forced us to evaluate different ways, and some have proven to be as good or better. But science must prevail. We cannot allow veterinary practice to change because it is more convenient for clients to merely pick up the phone. We must do what is best for our patients. v Regards, From the Editor Reflections from a DamWall Paul van Dam