Outside Pharmacy Policy

Effective December 1, 2024

Effective January 1, 2025 Nashville Cat Clinic will not process orders for medications, preventatives and/or special diets sent directly to us (via email, phone or fax) from online suppliers or from outside pharmacies (with the exception of compounding pharmacies for a specific formulation.)

We understand that there are many reasons that our clients may want to purchase medications from online retailers or outside pharmacies instead of directly from us. To assist you in making the most informed decision for your cat, we want to be very clear that we recommend that you purchase products only from a properly accredited and certified veterinary pharmacy; however, if you choose to procure medications from another source we want to give you that option.

We absolutely support our clients’ choice to choose where they obtain their cat’s medications and are happy to accommodate a request to do so. Clients who opt to obtain their cat’s medication through these avenues will simply need to pick up a written prescription at our hospital during normal business hours (fees apply).

WHY DID WE INSTITUTE THIS POLICY?

Managing outside prescriptions is costly in terms of staff time and effort. It takes a significant amount of time to review medical records, ensure proper documentation of the medication request and email/call/fax in the prescription.

More importantly though, we feel it is better medicine to utilize written documentation for a prescription that is filled outside of our hospital. Relaying prescription information over the phone increases the risk of dosing errors. Outside prescription requests do not generate a written record in your cat’s medical file. And, with little regulation of online pharmacies, we have no way to ensure the quality and reliability of the service.

We understand that cost and convenience are the two primary reasons that our clients purchase from outside pharmacies and online retailers. That’s why Nashville Cat Clinic has partnered with Covetrus to offer an online pharmacy option at Covetrus Pharmacy that offers the same pricing structure and shipping options as any other major online pharmacy. Many of our clients are already utilizing our online pharmacy for medications and special diets and we regularly send prescriptions to clients through our pharmacy when it is time to fill monthly preventatives. Unlike outside pharmacies, our online pharmacy is eligible for ALL of the product rebates available from our product suppliers.

Because our online pharmacy is part of our clinic infrastructure, you will not need a written prescription if you order this way. Our hospital and online store’s supply chain is 100% secure and from the time the medication you order is manufactured, all the way to when you are going to give it to your cat, it has been handled, stored and packaged in compliance with manufacturer guidelines. The product you receive is guaranteed to be the name-brand medication in the proper dosage and packaging. Medications purchased directly from us and our online store are guaranteed by the product’s manufacturer and most importantly by us, your cat’s veterinarian.

If you have any further questions about our policy, please do not hesitate to contact us. Thank you for trusting us with your cat’s medical care!

Thanks,
Nashville Cat Clinic

Client Rights and Responsibilities

Client Rights

As a client of Nashville Cat Clinic, you have the right:

Core Values

To expect a PURRFECT visit that incorporates our core values of Passion, Understanding, Rapport, Reliability, Feline Friendly, Education, Communication and Teamwork.

Respect

To be treated with consideration, respect, and compassion by all team members of Nashville Cat Clinic.

Credentialed Team

To receive care for your cat from appropriately licensed and credentialed team members, including veterinarians, technicians, assistants, and students in a Feline Friendly environment.

Informed Participation

To be an active, engaged and informed participant in the care and treatment of your cat.

Education

To feel empowered to make the best care decisions for your cat from a place of education, information and knowledge.

Treatment Plans

To be informed of the costs of services we provide in advance of them being performed and to approve and/or decline services at your discretion.

Accommodations

To be provided with reasonable accommodations to afford access if you have any disabilities or limited English language proficiencies.

Timely

To receive fair, timely, and objective review of any concern or complaint you have regarding your experiences with Nashville Cat Clinic.

Client Responsibilities

As a client of Nashville Cat Clinic, you are responsible for:

Healthy Habits

Being the hero of your cat’s healthcare journey by ensuring healthy habits of exercise, proper diet, routine preventative care, and vaccinations.

Respect

Showing respect to others, including the veterinary support and management team at Nashville Cat Clinic as well as other clients and patients.

Communication

Clearly communicating your wants and needs before, during, and after an appointment.

Operational Procedures

Abiding by administrative and operational procedures including Feline Friendly handling principles, appointment scheduling, and prescription refill requests.

Understanding

Reading and understanding any consent forms and treatment plans that you sign and to ask the NCC team for clarification when you do not understand medical terms or instructions about your cats plan of care.

Collaboration

Working collaboratively with providers to develop and carry out agreed-upon treatment plans for your cat, including any necessary follow-up visits and at-home care.

Financial Obligations

Honoring your financial obligations and abiding by the payment policies agreed to when your cat receives care.

Feedback

Using the appropriate client feedback processes to address any concerns that may arise from your experience with Nashville Cat Clinic.

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