One of the primary functions of the Veterinary Medical Center is to assist private practitioners in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of unusual or complicated cases. We welcome such cases through referral from a veterinarian or through private consultation as needed.
Scheduling Instructions for Referring Veterinarians
Option 1: Contact Client Services to schedule an appointment on behalf of the client.
Option 2: Contact Client Services to make a referral for a particular service. Please be prepared to provide client’s name and contact information. We will then contact the client to schedule an appointment.
Option 3: Advise clients to contact Client Services to obtain an appointment. We will ask the client to verify that they have been referred by you. We will then contact you to obtain a referral form.
Option 4: Contact our Referral Coordinator between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM at (865) 974-3939 to request assistance.
- To make an appointment, contact Client Services:
- (865) 974-8387
- 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- To discuss medical aspects before arranging an appointment:
- Referral Coordinator (865) 974-3939
- After hours or Emergencies: (865) 974-8387 and ask for the receiving clinician
Fax a copy of the completed referral form and copies of recent diagnostic testing results prior to the date of your client’s appointment.
Download a Referral Form
General Referral Policy
Although the receiving and referring veterinarian may have previously discussed a case prior to the animal being seen at the University, it is necessary and in the patient’s best interest that a written case history and summary of all previous tests, surgeries and medications be provided at their initial visit on the Referral Form.
When a referred patient arrives, the referring veterinarian will receive an automated arrival notification. The referring veterinarian is encouraged to contact the receiving clinician or the referral coordinator at any time concerning the progress of a hospitalized case. When the patient is discharged, the referring veterinarian will receive via the automated communication system (fax, email or letter, depending on referring veterinarian’s preference) a copy of the discharge instructions that were given to the client.
Upon discharge, clients are instructed to return the patient to their referring veterinarian for follow-up and other services. There will be times when it is necessary for the patient to return to the hospital for additional care; this will only be done when it is deemed in the best interest of the patient or requested by the referring veterinarian.
