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Vet Refusing To Pass On Original X-rays

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Pig007

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If you've been following my thread you will know that one of my pigs isn't well and that she has been seen by several vets to try and get a definitive answer as to what exactly is wrong with her. To cut a long story short I paid for X-rays to be taken and requested that they be sent to another vet. From what I have been told sending X-rays between Veterinary Surgeries is standard practise. However, the Vet flatly refuses to send the originals to another practise saying that it was against company policy. After several calls they sent pictures of the X-rays that were took with a camera (they weren't digital X-rays) but the recipient contacted me to say that the quality isn't sufficient.

It is over a week now since the X-rays were requested and we are no further forward. The only option currently is to have another set taken, yet cost aside it would require the pig to go under anaesthetic again which I am very reluctant to do. Even the vet who took the X-rays recommended that the pig doesn't go under again, yet will not release the X-rays. It just beggars belief - The only reason I went to another vet was because they couldn't give me a concrete answer as to what was wrong with her.
 
That's unbelievable. Can you not contact the manager there and have a stern word? Call the MRCVS and see what they say. I have never had an issue with vets sharing X-rays before. I would be furious and it's the last thing you need at the moment. Are they part of a large group or a small independent? Poor you...sending healing vibes as well. Hope you sort things out. X
 
I am ever so sorry! Could you ask whether the x-rays be handed over to you when closing your account with them as they are putting your pet's life at risk and then complain to the management. X-rays should be sent on.
 
They claim they need the X-rays for their records - the animals history. At the minute I am spending 3-4 hrs each day feeding the pig to keep it alive and I have been doing that for several weeks now whilst I try to get to the bottom of what is wrong with her. It is just not sustainable as I work FT as well - I am shattered. The current theory is that it is a infection of the jaw which is preventing her eating, however without the X-rays it is difficult for the vet to diagnose. I am just fed up and don't know what to do.
 
I agree with the above, that doesn't sound right at all. My own vets always email me my xrays if I ask, for me to do with as I like, which they know includes showing them to the vet at the piggy clinic I go to if needed. As they are not digital I would ask for the actual xrays to be given to you directly when you close your account like Wiebke says.
 
Is there any way you could travel down to Simon Maddock in Northampton or have your new vet speak to him on the phone?
 
I have spoke with Simon via e-mail - it is one of the reasons I want to get the X-rays to get his opinion.

Time for final feed for the pig - takes an hour :( ….soooo tired.
 
What I suggest you do is ring the original vet's practice and ask for the manager/senior vet and clearly state that you are making a formal complaint and that following the conversation if you get no further, then this will be put in writing. Also explain in clear terms, the urgency due to the health of your guinea pig and that as they have not been able to come up with a diagnosis, you are seeking a second opinion, which you are quite entitled to do. In view of the current health of your guinea pig, it is not appropriate for another anaesthetic. X rays are paid for by yourself as like a private healthcare, so you are entitled to ask that they be shared with the new vet as you are seeking a second opinion, something you are quite entitled to do, particularly as you have no diagnosis from the original vet.

If you do not get any further forward with this and the X rays are not released properly and in view of the seriousness of the risk to the health of your animal, I would suggest that you then inform them you will be making a formal complaint to the RCVS and in view of the urgency, which will be telephoned and then put in writing.

You will have then followed procedure in making them aware this is a formal complaint and that you intend to take it further to their registered body. That will usually get a quick response, as they do not like formal complaints going to the RCVS.

In the meantime, I am not sure what the health issue is as I have not seen your original thread, but it may be worth considering asking if an ultrasound is appropriate, for which the guinea pig does not have to be put under anaesthetic. This may pick up the issue better than an X ray.

My guinea pig has urinary tract issues and my vet performed an ultrasound and was able to tell me there were no stones in the bladder or urinary tract, so was able to rule that out, before proceeding with medication.

I know how tired hand feeding can make you. Keep strong and let us know how you get on.
 
That is a AWFUL!! These things are all digitally stored these days I am sure and could easily be passed on. Like our records as humans this should be standard practice! It is your right to be referred or refer yourself and likely pay a fee so that records can be passed between vets (I did).

Absolutely disgusting. I would be furious.
 
Pig007 said:
I have spoke with Simon via e-mail - it is one of the reasons I want to get the X-rays to get his opinion.

Time for final feed for the pig - takes an hour :( ….soooo tired.
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Hang in there I know hand feedings can be difficult but your piggy knows you are doing your best. I would have an attorney send a letter to the vet. It sounds fishy to me I have never had a vet refuse me x rays. Bless you
 
Would be good to know which vet you've been dealing with so that we can avoid them once you're a bit more up on your (and your piggy's) feet. Absolutely outrageous of a vet to withhold potentially life-affecting resources that you've paid for.
 
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