Episode 24: Understanding the veterinary triangle of communication

For Chand Khanna, DVM, PhD, DACVIM (ONC), DACVP (HON), chief science officer of Ethos Veterinary Health, it was during his doctoral program when he truly understood the key role veterinarians play in studying complex medical conditions like osteosarcoma. Ever since, it has been his mission to help strengthen communication between fellow oncology specialists, primary-veterinarians, and pet owners.

In this latest episode of The Vet Blast Podcast, Khanna briefly touches on a few osteosarcoma innovations and explains to Dr. Christman how three-way communication has evolved due to increasing technological advancements.

Instead of communicating via multiple faxes like in the past, Khanna says specialists can now conveniently and easily text back and forth between primary-care veterinarians and clients to discuss cancer treatment options. He also uses Instagram to further enhance this 3-way communication. These innovations are helping to build better relationships between primary-care veterinarians and specialists, says Khanna, adding that improving this bond is so important, especially during these unprecedented times when making tough treatment decisions is especially hard.

Christman agrees, noting that telehealth has significantly enhanced communication between veterinarians, specialists, and pet owners during COVID-19.

“This is a byproduct of the pandemic that is going to allow us to deliver broader care,” Khanna responds, explaining that the pandemic had led to increased awareness of the many tools available to improve communication.

“We want to reassure the client that we are a trusted team working together for the benefit of the pet," he says.

Listen below to learn more about the veterinary triangle of communication.