Texas Administrative Code
Title 22 - EXAMINING BOARDS
Part 24 - TEXAS BOARD OF VETERINARY MEDICAL EXAMINERS
Chapter 573 - RULES OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Subchapter C - RESPONSIBILITIES TO CLIENTS
Section 573.24 - Responsibility of Veterinarian to Refer a Case
Current through Reg. 50, No. 13; March 28, 2025
(a) A veterinarian shall have a duty to a client to suggest a referral to a specialist, or otherwise more qualified veterinarian, in any case where the care and treatment of the animal is beyond the veterinarian's capabilities. A veterinarian's decision on whether to accept or continue care and treatment of an animal, which may require expertise beyond the veterinarian's capabilities, shall be based on the exercise of sound judgment within the prevailing standard of care for a veterinarian faced with the same or similar circumstances.
(b) Complaints Regarding Failure to Make Proper Referral. Board investigations of complaints alleging failure to properly make referrals will include evaluation of the training and experience of the veterinarian, the availability of a specialist or more qualified veterinarian, the timeliness and adequacy of information provided to the client regarding the possible need for a referral, the requests of the client, and the likelihood that an adverse result could have been prevented by a timely referral.
