Introduction:
Little is known about the relationship between equine referring veterinarians and specialists. Commentaries on veterinary referral have emphasized the need for communication and collegiality. The relationship between rDVMs and specialists is of importance because, as one of the four relationships that form the pillars of relationship-centred care, it has the potential to impact outcomes of referral care.  

Objective:
To explore equine referring veterinarians’ expectations of equine veterinary referral centers and specialists.  

Method:
Six focus group interviews were conducted (n=48). A semi-structured discussion guide was used, and data were analyzed with thematic analysis.  

Findings:
The overriding theme of discussion was that referral was to function as an extension of the rDVM’s care. Specifically, participants discussed the rDVM-client relationship, rDVM involvement during referral care, collegial rDVM-specialist relationship, communication between rDVM and specialist, and the boundaries of referral care. Participants described a need to be involved during the referral process, which was described as being accomplished by having a collegial relationship with the specialist and by having effective communication during the course of referral care.  

Discussion:
Participants described dynamics and components of their relationships with specialists. Communication and strength of relationship were emphasized as crucial to referral success. Results of this study suggest referring veterinarians and specialists would benefit from pursuing opportunities to further their relationship including upfront communication to establish clear role expectations and to establish clear processes for sharing information.  



Authors:
*COE, Jason1  BEST, Colleen 1 HEWSON, Joanne 2 MEEHAN, Michael 1 KELTON, David 1 BLACK, Belinda
1. Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada;
2. Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada;
3. Goulburn Valley Equine Hospital, 905 Goulburn Valley Hwy, Congupna, Victoria, Australia, 3633