More Than Just Animal Doctors: Veterinarians in the Healthcare Mosaic

by Michael J. Blackwell, DVM, MPH

Healthcare today often resembles a patchwork—fractured and compartmentalized, each piece addressing a separate concern. Yet health, human or animal, is not a collection of isolated issues. It is a complex, interconnected web, which is why interprofessional collaboration is crucial.

In the U.S., where pets are considered cherished family members in nearly 70% of households, a critical gap has emerged. Financial obstacles prevent over a quarter of American families from accessing necessary veterinary care, as reported by the Access to Veterinary Care Coalition. This challenge doesn't just affect the health of pets; it reverberates through the entire family unit, impacting both physical and emotional well-being.

To bridge this gap, the University of Tennessee developed the AlignCare system. Utilizing proprietary software, AlignCare connects qualified families to veterinary services, embedding this assistance within a broader spectrum of family healthcare.

This interprofessional, collaborative system is revolutionized by the integration of Veterinary Social Workers (VSW). These professionals extend their support far beyond veterinary care, addressing associated challenges including mental health, housing, and food insecurity. By aligning with human healthcare providers and social services, they ensure families receive comprehensive support.

The AlignCare model marks a paradigm shift in family healthcare, weaving the care of pets into the fabric of family well-being. It's a strategic fusion of human and veterinary healthcare, creating a One Health system poised to tackle wider societal health issues.

Anticipation grows for an upcoming report that will shed light on AlignCare's journey, from development to testing in real-world scenarios. This report promises to provide valuable insights into the creation of a truly integrated, interprofessional One Health system. Stay tuned.