In this episode, I interview Dr. Fran Wilkerson, a veterinary colleague in the Chicago area. She has a very informative website about pet insurance that she was developing several years ago at the same time I was starting this blog. She is one of the most knowledgable veterinarians in the United States about pet insurance and I'm happy to introduce her to you.
She shares with us:
- Why she started her website
- Some of the "must have" coverages if you are to select a policy that provides adequate coverage for your pet's injuries and illnesses.
- Some similarities and differences between human health insurance and pet health insurance.
- Why it is important that pet insurance companies, pet owners and veterinarians diligently guard against any drift toward "managed care" that has plagued other health professions. This is a topic that you may not have heard discussed much, but I think it will be of interest to you.
- Her Pet Health Newsletter that is primarily devoted to educating and notifying subscribers about pet food recalls.
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Great podcast/episode! Excellent summary of what we pet owners need to know.
I'm curious; are there indications that the pet insurance industry might be headed toward "managed care"?
Posted by: Chris | 09/13/2013 at 11:11 AM
Chris,
Not yet. Trupanion Express pays the vet directly, but doesn't really tell the vet what they can and cannot do or limit reimbursements due to contract agreement, etc.
Posted by: Dr. Doug Kenney | 09/13/2013 at 06:38 PM
Dr. Kenney -- excellent podcast with Dr. Fran, whom I equally respect for her guidance in this field. What a great conversation between you two -- and the information was highly instructive. Well done!
Posted by: Merrick | 10/02/2013 at 06:23 PM
Thanks for the great interview. I really enjoyed listening to someone so well informed.
Posted by: Jim | 10/16/2013 at 05:44 PM