FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FAQs Coral Springs Animal Hospital
There is no question too big or too small for our veterinary team. Below are some answers to our most common questions.
The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) strongly suggests that all pet-owning families consider their ability to meet unexpected expenses that may be incurred for veterinary care. We highly recommend you purchase a Pet Health Insurance Policy to cover the costs of an injury or illness that can sometimes result in thousands of dollars in expenditures. We make our clients aware of the appropriate medical services for their pets and the estimated cost of those services. It is our responsibility to advocate for our patients; we recommend the best possible medical plan as the case dictates. However, the extent of care given to any pet is ultimately determined by its owner. Every pet owner has different expectations on what is acceptable and affordable pet health care and to what extent they wish to pursue a treatment plan and should discuss that with their veterinarian.
Our fees, comparable to other 24-hour Emergency & Specialty Hospitals in South Florida, reflect what it takes to maintain a sizeable multi-specialty emergency hospital. Our Emergency Room/ICU is open and stocked with all the necessary lifesaving equipment, medications, and highly skilled veterinarians and technicians to receive and care for patients 24/7/365. We understand that veterinary care, especially emergency and specialty veterinary care, can be an unforeseen expense for pet owners. We offer payment plans through Care Credit, Scratchpay, and Wells Fargo Health Advantage.
FEE ESTIMATES:
We understand that in addition to their concern about the health of their pet, unexpected and unplanned veterinary expenses can be very stressful to pet owners. We do not wish to extend anyone beyond their means. Fee estimates aid pet owners in planning for their financial responsibility.
IT IS OUR POLICY TO PREPARE *FEE ESTIMATES FOR PET OWNERS IN ADVANCE AND IN WRITING, FOR ALL PATIENTS ADMITTED INTO THE HOSPITAL.
*Please note that it is not possible to anticipate every procedure that may be necessary, especially in accident victims or critical patients. When additional procedures not listed in the original fee estimate are required, we will make reasonable attempts to inform you of charges in advance unless the additional treatment is required as an immediate life-saving measure.
PET INSURANCE:
Today, pet health insurance is available to offset the costs of your furry friends’ medical expenses.
- For those considering pet health insurance, we offer the following suggestions:
Be sure you understand what the policy covers. Some policies (but not all) cover preventative care, such as annual examinations and vaccinations, but there may be additional costs for this coverage. - Understand the exclusions. Almost all policies exclude pre-existing conditions and some exclude hereditary conditions. Some may exclude certain conditions unique to certain breeds.
- Almost all policies have a deductible and co-pay requirement. Some pay according to a set schedule of “usual and customary fees” while some pay based on the actual incurred expense. Be sure you understand how expenses will be reimbursed.
- Ask whether or not the policy allows you to seek care from a veterinarian of your own choosing or whether you must go to a veterinarian that participates in the company’s network of providers. When faced with a pet’s serious illness, most pet owners want to be able to obtain care from their regular veterinarian.
- Speak with your veterinarian or someone on his/her practice team. While veterinarians do not sell insurance, chances are they have had experience with the policy you are considering and can provide helpful advice.
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AAHA Meeting The Cost Of Pet Care
PAYMENT POLICY:
It is customary in Veterinary Medicine that fees are paid as services are rendered. Deposits are required for all patients being admitted to the hospital. Unlike in human medicine, Veterinary Hospitals receive no government funding, grants, or social security-type programs that would allow them to run without payment upfront.
We understand that veterinary care and especially emergency and specialty care can be an unforeseen expense for pet owners. We offer payment plans through Care Credit, Scratchpay, and Wells Fargo Health Advantage.