Veterinary CPD webinar – Spectrum of Care: A Practical Approach for Vet Students and Newly Qualified Vets

What is spectrum of care?

Spectrum of care recognises that there is not always one single “right” plan. Instead, care exists on a continuum.

At one end may be gold-standard diagnostics and treatment. At the other may be palliative care, symptomatic treatment or, in some cases, euthanasia. Between those points sits a wide range of acceptable, ethical and patient-centred options.

The key is to tailor recommendations to the individual case while considering:

• the patient’s welfare and comfort
• the client’s finances, lifestyle and expectations
• the resources available in the practice
• the evidence base for different diagnostic and treatment options
• clear communication and careful documentation

Gold standard is not always the same as standard of care

One of the most important takeaways from the webinar is that “gold standard” and “standard of care” are not the same thing.

Gold standard care may involve the most advanced diagnostics, referral pathways or treatment options available. But standard of care is shaped by what a reasonable practitioner would do in a given context. That context matters.

For new vets, this distinction can be reassuring. Offering an alternative plan does not mean offering poor care. When done thoughtfully, spectrum of care can improve access, reduce unnecessary euthanasia and support both patient welfare and client trust.

Incremental care: taking things step by step

Dr Boatwright also discusses incremental care, a stepwise approach where treatment and diagnostics are prioritised according to the patient’s needs and the client’s resources.

For example, a vomiting patient may not always need every diagnostic test immediately. Depending on stability and clinical findings, it may be appropriate to start with the most useful test, symptomatic treatment or a planned recheck.

This approach relies on strong clinical reasoning. It asks vets to consider:

• What are my top differentials?
• Will this test change my treatment plan?
• Is there a lower-cost way to gain useful information?
• Is this patient stable enough for the option being considered?
• What do we need to do now, and what can wait?

Communication is central

Spectrum of care is not simply about reducing costs. It is about shared decision-making.

Clients need to understand what each option means, including the benefits, risks, likely outcomes and costs. This includes explaining what may happen if they decline a recommendation.

Useful questions highlighted in the webinar include:

• “What is your budget today?”
• “What are your goals for today’s visit?”
• “If this plan doesn’t work, are you able to come back for the next step?”

These questions help avoid spending a client’s entire budget on diagnostics with nothing left for treatment. They also help clients feel involved rather than judged.