Table 1_The veterinary referral process in the DACH region: survey-based insights into obstacles and motivations.xlsx

Data from 657 general practitioners (GPs) and specialists (SPs) were analysed.</p>Results<p>The majority of veterinary surgeons were generally satisfied with collaboration within the referral process; however, GPs rated cooperation more favourably than SPs. A clear lack of information within referral letters was identified, including medical history, medication details, clients’ contact details, and specific clinical questions.

Participants considered good communication, professional skills, and timely discharge referral letters to be the three most important aspects of collaboration. According to GPs, discharge letters were received in 90% of cases, while according to SPs, discharge letters were sent in 80% of cases. The most common problems identified were delayed discharge referral letters (56%), communication failures (55.7%), and missing information (49.5%).</p>Conclusion<p>Although participants expressed overall satisfaction with collaboration in the chain of care, problems arise at several points along the referral pathway in the DACH region.

We recommend the development of unified referral guidelines within good clinical practice schemes, ideally regulated by relevant authorities, specifically addressing information exchange within referral letters.</p>