In this episode of The Business of Practice podcast, Katie Larson, DVM, described her experiences opening an emergency-only practice. She discussed the practicalities of operating this kind of practice, including financial considerations, relationship-building with other veterinarians, and the importance of gaining experience beforehand.
Larson’s emergency practice model involves working with several veterinarians on a subscription basis. She charges a fee per shift from each practice and requires payment from clients at the time of service. To be consistent with clients’ expected wait times for emergency service, she groups her shifts by location. She said this model has allowed her to set her own schedule, charge fairly, and have good cash flow, making it sustainable for her as an equine veterinarian. In addition, this model has given her more time to devote to organizations she’s involved with, such as a New Hampshire legislative study committee and a panel at Tufts University educating veterinary students.
Larson said veterinarians considering opening an emergency-only practice should focus on establishing strong relationships with other veterinarians in the area. She said it’s critical to assess the area’s needs before setting up a similar practice, as it might not be necessary in highly competitive or densely populated areas with existing emergency co-ops. However, even in these areas, opportunities might exist, such as temporary coverage for maternity leaves or vacations.
In closing, Larson encouraged listeners to consider new possibilities and be brave in trying new things.
About Dr. Katie Larson
Katie Larson, DVM, earned her bachelor’s in biology at College of the Holy Cross in 2011 and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2019. She completed a rotating internship in equine medicine and surgery at Littleton Equine Medical Center in Colorado. In 2021, Larson returned to New England where she worked at an ambulatory practice until establishing Saltwater Equine Emergency Services in West Newbury, Massachusetts, in August 2024. She is passionate about supporting horses and their owners in critical moments and also supporting her fellow veterinarians by helping them have time away from practice.
Larson currently serves as president of the New Hampshire Veterinary Medical Association, and she serves on the planning committee for the New England Veterinary Medical Association. She is also an active member of the American Association of Equine Practitioners, contributing to groups that emphasize practice culture, business strategies, and the welfare of working equids.
Related Reading
- The Business of Practice: Telemedicine Triage in Equine Practice
- The Business of Practice: Starting Your Own Equine Practice
- The Business of Practice: Dentistry-Only Practices
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