Veterinary medicine is constantly evolving, and we’ve seen particularly impactful changes over the last few years. We now prioritize our practice team members and their mental health, have learned to set boundaries with clients and our time, and have adapted to new technologies to assist us with efficiency. As we head into 2024, many of us may wonder what the future holds, and where we should set our sights. Here are our top recommendations for veterinary practice goals in the coming year.

#1: Explore AI tools

Artificial intelligence (AI) is at the forefront of everyone’s minds these days. Although veterinary medicine has been using AI in various diagnostic tools for many years, now AI technology is exploding with new advances. If you haven’t already, your practice should be exploring AI integration to streamline everyday processes and improve efficiency, which has become crucial as pet ownership and veterinary demand increases. In-house diagnostic equipment, AI chatbot assistants, record transcription tools, and PIMS integrations are good places to start.

#2: Implement telemedicine

Telemedicine laws are slowly changing and some states are allowing veterinarians to establish a VCPR through a telehealth visit, rather than in person. Like it or hate it, telemedicine has the power to increase access to veterinary care and help your practice see more patients in a day. And, telemedicine and virtual visits appeal to clients, who expect the convenience of telehealth not only for themselves but also their pets.

#3: Expand your digital presence

Millennials and Gen Z are now the majority of pet owners, and they expect convenient digital interactions with businesses. If they can’t make appointments online, access their pet’s health records, or contact the clinic through digital channels, they may seek services elsewhere. 2024 is the year to expand your social media presence, start a blog to increase website traffic, and sign up for a mobile app to deepen your clients’ connection to your practice. If you need help with digital pursuits, consider hiring a third party to design your website or write fresh blog content, so your team members can focus on patient care.

#4: Focus on sustainability

Sustainability is another area that pet owners increasingly care about. Climate change looms above us all, and consumers want to make choices that ease the burden on our environment. Consider switching distributors to one that prioritizes sustainability, which can also help improve your overall efficiency by decreasing packaging waste and consolidating delivery days. Of course, going digital will also greatly reduce your day-to-day paper requirements.

#5: Invest in training and CE

2024 is the year to take your staff to the next level. A well-trained team is an invaluable asset, and training them shows you’re invested in their future. Taking good care of your team members is key to retention in what seems like a perpetual staffing shortage, and elevates your team to a new level. Clients notice and appreciate a well-oiled, knowledgeable team and will feel more comfortable leaving their pets in your hands.

Wherever the year takes you, Rumpus Writing and Editing is here to help with your digital content and writing needs. Contact us to learn how our experienced veterinary writing team can lighten your workload and make 2024 your best year yet.