The word pragmatic means to deal with things sensibly and realistically in a way that is based on practical rather than theoretical considerations. Pragmatic veterinary medicine aims to practice value-based care with outcomes that are measured by more than just survival times or life and death.
In this session Dr. Kvitko-White will explain the concept of pragmatic veterinary medicine as well as the difference between gold-standard care and standard of care. She will highlight her own personal approach to internal medicine and how free clues from the signalment, history, and physical examination can narrow down the differential list. Discussion will include how decisions can be cost-conscientious (but costly) as well as how decisions can be expensive and still pragmatic. Dr. Kvitko-White will share her own tips and tricks for getting the most out of a client’s investment into their pet’s health and how saving money now results in better compliance and an increased perception of value from the pet owners.
