Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are answers to the questions most often asked by referring veterinarians.
How can I facilitate my client's referral to the VTH?
Provide a completed patient referral form. These forms help our clinicians to follow up with you and provide important information regarding the patient referral. Also, these forms explain our services and procedures, and provide your client with a map and directions to the VTH.
Why are radiographs and laboratory tests often repeated following admission to the VTH?
Radiographs and laboratory tests are repeated at the discretion of the attending clinician. Additional tests may be performed at the time of admission and throughout the patient's hospitalization period. This is necessary to monitor the disease progress, changes in organ function, or the response to therapeutic procedures. Clients prepared in advance seldom have concerns about additional tests.
What fees can my client expect to pay for services at the VTH?
Even though the VTH is partially supported by the state of North Carolina, the Hospital is responsible for paying operating costs through fees charged for services. Total costs are generally comparable to other specialty practices, although complex problems requiring more extensive workups may exceed these costs. If your animal must be hospitalized, an estimate of the anticipated cost of treatment will be provided to you. A deposit equal to the low end of the estimate is required at the time of admission to the hospital. Full payment is expected at the time of discharge. We accept payment by cash, check, credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover Card), or Care Credit.
Who provides the services to my clients at the VTH?
All services at the VTH are provided by a team of faculty, veterinary students, residents, and interns. As a teaching facility, involvement of students and doctors in training is mandatory. We believe that a team approach to health care delivery outweighs some of the perceived inconveniences. Also, cross-disciplinary teams of internal consulting specialists enhances the quality of expertise and medical care.
What should I do if I have not been promptly contacted following a referral?
Our intent is to always provide you with a case summary on the day of discharge. If you do encounter a problem with communications, please call one of the following:
- The referred service phone number
- Dr. Michael Davidson, Director of Veterinary Medical Services at 919.513.6211 or email mike_davidson@ncsu.edu
- Jim Brawley, Hospital administrator, 919.513.6687 or email jim_brawley@ncsu.edu