The ACVS Diplomate as Part of the Animal Care Team Rapid advances in the veterinary profession make it difficult for veterinarians to remain current with recent developments in techniques and technologies required to manage some of today's complex and surgical problems. Possessing the training, expertise and equipment to perform the most demanding procedures, the ACVS Diplomate can help the primary care veterinarian provide the best possible care to the patient. Difficult cases may be best managed by a specialist. When a referral is indicated the primary care practitioner should discuss this process with the client. Clients routinely deal with specialists in human healthcare and are familiar with the concept of specialization and the referral process.
Owners appreciate referrals for specialized surgical care.
As part of the healthcare team the surgeon will keep the referring veterinarian and client informed of the patient's progress throughout the specialized care. After patient discharge, the referring veterinarian may also provide additional postoperative follow-up care.