How Technology is driving a Veterinary Evolution

With AI-powered diagnosis and robotic surgery systems making their mark, it’s hard to deny that automation is becoming more and more prevalent. But, could veterinarians eventually be replaced by their robotic counterparts? Technology enthusiasts insist that the role of AI is not to replace, but to assist human professionals. Advanced technology can deliver actionable intelligence and useful insights. This will help veterinarians make informed decisions and solve complex problems.

It is believed that AI could revolutionize the way we work. By handling the more mundane and repetitive tasks, it allows humans to focus on higher-level tasks. The automation of certain processes and analysis of vast amounts of data can free up time. Hence, human professionals can engage more in creative and strategic thinking.

Let us look into the shifting capabilities of technology and determine which perspective holds most truth.

Technological Change is Undeniable

It is easy to view technology as antagonistic when the threat of redundancy seems to loom on the horizon. But to ignore the advancements in technology is to overlook their amplification of animal-care. Technology even relieves veterinarians of their monotonous and undesirable burdens. Advancements in technology, including electronic medical records, telemedicine, and remote monitoring, have made it easier for veterinarians to provide efficient and effective care to their patients. Let us look into how technology can be a God-send for veterinarians. 

Delivering High-quality Care

In veterinary care, technological and further digital transformation is becoming increasingly inevitable. Various forms of technology such as AI, robotic systems, and wearables have already been adopted in the industry. Wearables can track an animal’s health status and send data to veterinary clinics. Smart beds in hospitals have sensors that automatically monitor a patient’s health statistics. These are then transmitted to the nurse stations. Additionally, robotic carts equipped with sensors and Wi-Fi are utilized to deliver food, surgical equipment, and supplies to different areas of the veterinary hospital. Robotic systems can even assist with surgeries.

Furthermore, AI can aid in diagnosing diseases by analyzing medical images and clinical data. However, this doesn’t mean that veterinarians will be replaced by technology. Rather, they will work in collaboration with technology to provide superior service to animal patients. The implementation of technology should be thoughtfully considered. That is, the ongoing monitoring of the environment in which it is used must be a priority.  As veterinary specialists come to rely on technology in their profession, processes will become more efficient and streamlined. Yet it is still essential to have human professionals overseeing the use of technology to ensure quality of care.

Cost and Time-Saving

There is no doubt that the use of automation in veterinary care is on the rise, and this trend is set to continue. Veterinary practices are facing challenges in providing high-quality care while also managing costs. But instead of replacing skilled human professionals, which are in a short supply as it is, tech will allow organizations to optimize their utilization of resources. Automation and digital transference will augment the skills of veterinary teams by reducing repetitive tasks. Hence, technicians and technical aides can focus on more complex and valuable tasks.

Technology can be a powerful tool for animal care providers, allowing them to better manage patient care. One way this can be achieved is through the use of connected patient care devices. E.g., pill boxes that are equipped with Internet of Things (IoT) technology. These devices can detect when they have been opened. Thus, whether the patient has taken their medication as prescribed can be confirmed. If not, automated reminders can be sent to the patient via phone or text message. This encourages patients and pet parents to be mindful of treatment regimes. Such monitoring frees up veterinary staff to devote more time to frontline care.

Automating Redundant Tasks Will Improve Efficiency

The employees in the tech department of veterinary medical companies are essential for the company. They maintain the top-performance of their organization’s systems and applications. Without them, the company cannot ensure that their systems are running smoothly and efficiently. However, this job requires employees to spend the majority of their day sitting in front of a computer screen. Many of their tasks can be automated, while they oversee the process and fix bugs. Automating these tasks can save companies millions of dollars. Better yet, some of the most successful companies reinvest these savings into their employees. By investing in their employees, these companies can ensure that their veterinary professionals are well-trained, motivated, and productive. This in turn helps to ensure that their systems remain up and running and their clients receive the best care possible.

Veterinarians: Expendable or Essential?

So far we have established that technology and veterinary service are irrevocably intertwined. We cannot go back and erase what veterinarians are now dependent on. But going forward, are veterinarians going to play purely supplementary roles to AI/IoT-dominated software? Or will it be the other way around?

Veterinary Treatment requires In-depth understanding and intuition

Veterinarians have the ability to interpret complex animal behavior and body language. Animals cannot communicate in the same way that humans do. So, veterinarians must rely on their observations and knowledge of animal behavior to make diagnoses and recommendations for treatment. Additionally, while technology can provide detailed imaging and diagnostic information, it cannot make judgments or decisions about treatment plans based on factors such as the animal’s individual history or emotional wellbeing, which veterinarians take into account when making recommendations.

Diagnoses requires Physical Examinations

Physical examinations by veterinarians cannot be fully automated. Technology may play a role in assisting in certain diagnostic procedures or providing imaging and laboratory results. But the physical examination of an animal requires hands-on, personalized attention. The ethical decision-making capabilities of vets cannot be replicated or replaced by technology. Veterinarians must assess the animal’s physical and behavioral responses. In person assessments best ensure an accurate diagnosis and provide tailored treatment options. Therefore, physical examinations by veterinarians will continue to require manual examination skills.

Personalized Care

To successfully integrate new medical technologies, they must align with a patient-focused healthcare approach. Pet owners should feel empowered to take an active role in their animals’ care. Of course, technology can aid in achieving this. But the considerate and safe environment can only be created by human caregivers for clients and patients. Their role in establishing trust and providing emotional support cannot be replaced by technology.

Individualized care for animals is an important feature of veterinary service. The  unique needs and characteristics of each animal must be considered when providing medical care. Factors such as an animal’s age, breed, and medical history are vital when assessing their health and developing treatment plans. Veterinarians can use this information to tailor their approach to each animal’s specific needs. This, they ensure the best possible outcomes in terms of health and wellbeing. Additionally, individualized care fosters a closer relationship between veterinarians, animal caregivers, and the animals themselves. Results include better communication, trust, and compliance with treatment plans. It is through the collaboration of both technology and human expertise that we can create a patient-centered healthcare system.

The Complementary Conclusion

While advancements in technology have had an impact on the veterinary industry, such as improving diagnostic potential or increasing patient communication, they cannot replace the expertise and decision-making skills of trained veterinary professionals. Technology should be seen as a tool to enhance veterinary care, not as a replacement for it. Furthermore, veterinary professionals often provide more than just medical expertise. From client education to emotional support, their services cannot be replicated by technology. Therefore, while technology may change the way that veterinary professionals practice, it is unlikely that it will completely replace their role in the industry.