Choosing the Right Veterinary Software: From PIMS to Emerging Technologies
About the session
Technology is becoming an essential ally in optimizing operations and improving patient care. With a wide range of tools available—from practice management systems (PIMS) to appointment scheduling, inventory management, and AI solutions for imaging and client communication—finding the right veterinary software can be a daunting task. Choose wisely, and you’ll see a boost in productivity, patient care, and staff satisfaction. Choose poorly, and you might face operational chaos, increased stress, and financial strain. At best, you might end up stuck with software that nobody uses.
In this session, we’ll break down the essential components of veterinary software, starting with the backbone of any practice—PIMS—and exploring additional tools that can further enhance your operations. We’ll discuss when it’s time to update your PIMS, who should be involved in the evaluation process, how to create a checklist of essential features, and how to weigh cost versus value. We’ll also cover technical considerations, such as hospital readiness for new software, and the steps for its smooth implementation. Special attention will be given to managing change effectively so your staff embraces and utilizes the new software fully.
Finally, we’ll dive into evaluating AI tools—a rapidly growing area in veterinary medicine. We’ll compare features, cost, integration options, and user experience while considering the impact on workflows, client communication, and administrative tasks. Key topics will include data security and the responsible use of this emerging technology.
By the end of the presentation, you’ll be equipped with practical insights to navigate the software selection process and make informed choices that will enhance your practice’s efficiency and effectiveness.
This course is RACE approved for 1 hour of continuing education credit for veterinarians and veterinary technicians in jurisdictions that recognize RACE approval (RACE 20-1241320). This course is approved by the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association (VHMA) for 1 hour of CVPM CE credit (24-57).
What you'll learn
Factors influencing software selection
We'll discuss costs, integration capabilities, impact on workflows, client communication, and administrative tasks.
Advancements and key features of PIMS
The latest innovations in PIMS and the essential features for your practice's needs.
Technical evaluations and software readiness
Best practices for assessing your hospital's readiness for new software implementation.
Evaluating AI tools
Identify your practice’s needs and required AI functionality, determine the best type of AI tool, and assess cost vs. value.
Creating a comprehensive evaluation checklist
Develop criteria to guide the selection and integration of veterinary software in your practice.
Effective change management strategies
Implement strategies to ensure smooth software adoption and staff engagement.
Our Hosts
Dawn Lyne, RVT
Dawn Lyne is a Registered Veterinary Technician with over two decades of experience in veterinary medicine, education, and consulting. After dedicating 15 years to urgent care, general practice, and internal medicine, Dawn traded her stethoscope for a laptop and embraced the digital heartbeat of the veterinary world. As a workflow consultant at SmartFlow and now as a Practice Workflow Specialist at Digitail, she helped hundreds of veterinary hospitals worldwide optimize their daily routines and champion digital transformation.
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