Episode Description 

Welcome to another episode of the Veterinary Business Success Show. In this episode, Brendan Howard interviews Dr. Ryan Englar, a board-certified canine and feline practitioner and Executive Director of Clinical and Professional Skills at the University of Arizona's veterinary school, about the importance of communication in veterinary medicine.

Dr. Englar stresses the importance of not only having medical knowledge but also being able to effectively communicate it to clients. She explains that the Calgary Cambridge guide offers over 70 communication skills, but it's not necessary to apply all of them to every conversation. Instead, she encourages students to identify which skills resonate with them and feel natural to their authentic voice. 

Dr Englar also discusses the shift from medical paternalism, where doctors were seen as the expert in charge, to a more collaborative approach with clients. This approach involves relationship-centred care, where the veterinarian works with the client to make shared decisions that are best for the patient, client, and doctor.

Further, Brendan Howard asks about the challenge of the tripartite relationship in veterinary medicine, where the veterinarian is responsible for the animal's health but the client makes the decisions. Dr Englar acknowledges that this is a huge challenge, even for newer veterinarians, and that it's important to understand the client's perspective and find a plan that works for both the pet and the client.

Dr Englar also talks about the importance of communication in practice ownership and middle management. She believes that communication is lacking in many practices, and there needs to be more dialogue between employees and management. She encourages practice owners to reflect on what's working and what isn't, and to have sit-downs with employees to discuss their concerns.

In conclusion, Dr. Engler's insights on communication in veterinary medicine are invaluable. As she says, "Communication is the foundation of everything we do." So, if you want to improve your communication skills and become a better veterinarian, be sure to listen to this episode of the Veterinary Business Success Show.

Episode Outline 

• [00:00] Episode Intro 
• [02:29] Dr. Englar explains the Calgary Cambridge Guide
• [04:38] Simplifying communication and building efficiency in the consultation process
• [07:31] Shift from Medical Paternalism
• [13:28] Communication challenges between Doctor and Client
• [18:15] Ad Break- Learn more about our Leaders program 
• [20:20] Communication Training for Veterinary Students 
• [25:23] Creating a safe environment for communication at the workplace
• [29:12] Challenges Faced by Veterinary Graduates 
• [33:50] Episode wrap-up
• [34:35] The end