This article was originally printed in the Nov/Dec 2025 issue of the California Veterinarian magazine.

With veterinary professionals facing physically demanding work environments, the risk of occupational injuries remains a concern. From animal handling incidents to repetitive strain injuries, the need for timely and effective medical care is critical. Fortunately, telehealth is emerging as a transformative solution in occupational medicine—offering immediate access to care, streamlining workers’ compensation claims, and supporting faster recovery for injured veterinary staff.

The Rise of Telehealth
Telehealth platforms like MedCall offered by Preferred Employers Insurance (PEI) are revolutionizing how workplace injuries are managed. These platforms provide 24/7 access to emergency physicians via phone or video, allowing injured workers to receive immediate triage and medical guidance without leaving the workplace or home.

Veterinary practices, often operating with lean teams and unpredictable schedules, benefit immensely from this model. Whether a technician suffers a bite wound or a kennel assistant experiences a back strain, telehealth ensures that claims are initiated immediately and that resulting care begins promptly.

Benefits for Veterinary Employees
When a non-emergency workplace injury occurs, telehealth provides:

• Convenient access: Consultations from the practice, home, or remote locations eliminate travel time and reduce disruptions to patient care.
• Faster recovery: Immediate virtual triage accelerates treatment plans, helping staff return to work sooner.
• Specialist reach: Access to occupational health experts and specialists ensures tailored care.

Advantages for Veterinary Employers
For veterinary practice owners and managers, telehealth simplifies injury management and reduces costs, offering:

• Lower claim costs: Timely care leads to shorter recovery periods and less lost productivity.
• Streamlined claims: Platforms like MedCall integrate reporting and treatment, reducing administrative burden.
• Data-driven safety: Telehealth records can reveal injury trends, guiding preventive measures and training.

MedCall, PEI’s Telehealth Product
MedCall offers direct access to emergency physicians trained in occupational injuries. Unlike nurse triage services, MedCall physicians can prescribe medications (excluding controlled substances), recommend in-person care when needed, and provide detailed reports for claims and OSHA compliance.

MedCall facilitates injury reporting and instantly connects veterinary staff to physicians. The service is bilingual, accessible via mobile or desktop, and designed for non-emergency situations. Enrollment is free, and claims are initiated at first contact, ensuring a seamless experience for both employee and employer.

Telehealth is not just a convenience—it’s a strategic asset for veterinary practices. By embracing digital care solutions, practices can protect their workforce, reduce downtime, and foster a culture of safety and support. As the veterinary field continues to evolve, integrating telehealth into occupational health protocols will be key to sustaining a resilient and healthy team.

Worker’s compensation coverage from PEI is available through the Veterinary Insurance Services Company (VISC). Contact VISC at 888.762.3143 for more information or to obtain a quote today.

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