Why can't I have my dog's hip dysplasia X-Rays?

Vets retain X-rays for future reference and to prevent fraud.

By Neil McIntosh

Wednesday, 30 November 2011

I recently had my Labrador’s hips X-rayed at my vet so that they could be sent to the British Veterinary Association Hip Dysplasia Scheme.

The results were good and I asked my vet if I could have the X-rays but he refused. Seems a bit rich, given how much they cost! Could you ask Neil if I should complain?

HIP DYSPLASIA
Neil McIntosh
Well for a change, I am with your vet on this one! What you paid for was to have your pet anaesthetised, the X-ray taken and an opinion offered on it.

You did not, unless you specifically requested it prior to the X-ray being taken, actually pay for the X-ray film.

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons’ Guide to Professional Conduct (which is available online to everyone) states: “Case records including radiograph films and similar documents are the property of, and should be retained by, veterinary surgeons in the interests of animal welfare and for their own protection. Copies with a summary of the history should be passed on request to a colleague taking over the case.”

In essence, your vet retains the X-rays for future reference, to prevent fraud, to defend himself against subsequent accusations of misinterpretation and because most clients would just lose them anyway!

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Comments

Dee

Sun, 4th Dec 2011 18:44:35

I would use another vet,only costs on average Â£50 put dog out,then 1st x ray around Â£50 subsequent x rays Â£12each if done at same time,then bva charge around Â£50 to evaluate.Your vet can keep a copy if he wants,have him take 2 and send one off.Trouble is some vets don't position the dogs properly for x rays and don't want you showing others there shoddy work,the examiner's can only evaluate what they see, if the x ray is bad you will receive a higher score than maybe your dog deserve's. In your case i would ask your vet can you take photograph's of the x ray he has.