Terms and conditions for referring vets
1. Introduction
These Terms and Conditions govern referrals accepted by OralVet Referrals Ltd ("OralVet"). By referring a patient to OralVet, the referring veterinary practice agrees to these Terms. These Terms are intended to support collaborative patient care in accordance with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) Code of Professional Conduct.
2. Referral basis
OralVet accepts referrals exclusively from veterinary surgeons and veterinary practices registered with the RCVS. The referring veterinary surgeon remains the patient's primary veterinary surgeon unless otherwise agreed. OralVet accepts referrals for investigation, diagnosis, treatment and advice within the agreed scope of referral.
3. Referral information
The referring practice should provide sufficient clinical information including referral history, medical records, laboratory results, diagnostic imaging, current medications, previous treatments, client contact details and insurance information where appropriate. Incomplete information may delay assessment or treatment.
4. Client consent
The referring practice is responsible for obtaining the owner's consent for referral and the transfer of relevant clinical information. By referring a patient, the referring practice confirms that such consent has been obtained.
5. Communication
OralVet will acknowledge referrals where appropriate, provide clinical updates, issue a written report following consultation and communicate significant findings and recommendations to the referring practice.
6. Emergency treatment
Where immediate treatment is required to protect patient welfare, OralVet may undertake emergency investigations or treatment before discussion with the referring veterinary surgeon if delay would compromise the patient. The referring practice will be informed as soon as reasonably practicable.
7. Scope of treatment
Treatment will normally be limited to the condition(s) for which the patient has been referred. If unrelated conditions requiring urgent attention are identified, OralVet will act in the patient's best interests and communicate with the referring veterinary surgeon wherever possible.
8. Return of care
Following completion of the agreed referral, responsibility for routine veterinary care will return to the referring veterinary practice unless alternative arrangements have been agreed.
9. Fees
Fees are payable by the client unless otherwise agreed in writing. Estimates do not constitute fixed quotations. Additional investigations or treatment may be required if unexpected findings or complications arise.
10. Insurance
Where appropriate, OralVet will assist clients by providing documentation required by insurers. Responsibility for payment remains with the client unless otherwise agreed. Insurance reimbursement cannot be guaranteed.
11. Clinical records
Clinical records remain the property of OralVet in accordance with RCVS guidance. Copies of reports and relevant records will normally be provided to the referring veterinary practice.
12. Confidentiality and data protection
Personal information is processed in accordance with OralVet's Privacy Policy, UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018. Clinical information is shared only where necessary for the provision of veterinary care or where required by law.
13. Telephone calls
Incoming and outgoing business telephone calls may be recorded for quality assurance, staff training, maintaining accurate records, continuity of patient care, complaint resolution and protecting staff and clients. Recordings are retained securely for up to 30 days before automatic deletion unless longer retention is required for legal or regulatory reasons.
14. Professional standards
OralVet is committed to practising in accordance with the RCVS Code of Professional Conduct, the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966, UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018 and other applicable legislation.
15. Complaints
Any concerns regarding a referral should be raised with OralVet as soon as possible. We aim to investigate and resolve concerns promptly, fairly and professionally.
16. Changes
These Terms may be updated from time to time. The latest version will be available on our website.
Contact
OralVet Referrals Ltd.
Registered Office: Oakingham House, Frederick Place, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP11 1JU, United Kingdom.
Company No: 16771794 | VAT No: 505378589
Contact: hello@oralvet.co.uk