Professional Liability in Bovine Practice

The Changing Scene

Abstract

The changing scene in veterinary malpractice is one that encompasses not only veterinarians and their modes of practice but also encompasses the livestock industry and companion animals. The profession is governed by economic values as to the service performed while the results expected are often equated to the practice of medicine.

In today's era of consumerism, statements of intent to perform a service are generally taken to imply a guarantee of good results. Although professionals in the health field cannot guarantee the results of surgical, diagnostic, and medical procedures, or the use of drugs or biological agents, legal decisions in recent years increasingly have put veterinarians, like other health professionals at risk of being sued for malpractice. There will always be variables that compound a health problem, confuse the client, and create a potential claim-producing situation. A review of such incidents can help veterinarians guard against situations that predispose to malpractice claims.