Recently. I’ve had a few clients request a refill for medication for their pets. The owners were very upset when we had to decline the refill for the medication because their pet had not received a physical examination within 1 year. I think that it’s very important for clients to understand that this requirement is not a hospital policy. It is California state law. The law requires a valid client-patient-doctor relationship and a physical examination for that problem within 1 year of the prescription. Dr. Kosmin, who now works for enforcement of the California State Board has discussed this a length with the staff. If I approve an illegal prescription and my records get audited by the state board (and random inspections do occur), I could face severe penalties, including loss of my license. So, I will decline any prescription refill request which will violate the law. Beyond the law, examinations are important. Paying for one exam a year is a small price to ensure that your pet remains in good health. This is especially important when your pet is on medications for specific diseases which require closely monitoring health conditions. That’s why we make sure to discuss all medications your pet is on during a regular comprehensive physical examination. Some medications also have advisements for lab work by veterinary specialists, pharmaceutical companies, or the FDA. While not strictly illegal to refill medications that have lab tests recommended, I could be held legally responsible if I did not advise these tests to be run. We run these tests in the interest of your pet’s health and well being.
To make sure that there is no interruption of your pet’s medication, please try to give us at least a week’s notice before your pet is out of medication when requesting a refill. That way if an exam or any testing is required, we can arrange for scheduling. Also, because I have only recently taken over the practice, we are working to make sure all needed medications are on hand. We are working on getting new practice management software that will track inventory better (so we know what we need to order and when) and also be able to let you know how soon an exam or testing will be required. Of course, you can call or email anytime to find out when your pet will need an examination or test for their medication.
We appreciate your patience and understanding.