Close up of vital signs screen

'Call in advance' now required for all incoming ER referral cases

To ensure the best possible patient care and client service, the WCVM Veterinary Medical Centre (VMC) has updated its small animal emergency referral process. The most important change: all referring veterinary clinics must call the VMC before sending in a small animal emergency referral to the hospital.

The advance phone call allows VMC emergency and critical care team members to get a sense of the urgency of each case and to plan for expected increases in caseload.

It's also a good opportunity for both clinical teams to discuss matters — including potential costs and the timeline of treatment — so referring veterinarians and their clients can anticipate what to expect before the visit. 

Referring veterinary clinics can contact the VMC's Small Animal Clinic reception (306-966-7126) any time, night and day. 

Here are additional guidelines for referring veterinarians: 

  • If a member of the VMC's emergency and critical care team isn't available to speak and doesn't return your call within 30 minutes, please proceed to the next step
  • If you are unable to speak to a VMC clinician immediately and you believe that your case is in critical condition and is considered urgent, please send the case to the VMC
  • Please inform your client that the VMC will charge emergency fees

The WCVM Veterinary Medical Centre thanks all of its referring veterinarians and veterinary clinics for their co-operation and help as the hospital works to operate an efficient and effective emergency service for small animals.