What is the best pet insurance and do insurance policies cover any vet?
Original Question: What is the best pet insurance? Do insurance policies that say “we cover any vet” really cover for any vet? - Luis
Dec 29, 2018
Hi Luis,
Thanks for the question.
Insurance policies for pets, just like for us, are highly variable. Every company’s policies will differ in some way. I find your questions really interesting. Insurance policies would typically explain what ‘conditions’ are covered under the policy. I’ve never seen any policy indicate that they would cover a claim when your pet was serviced by one veterinarian over another. It really shouldn’t have to do with the actual veterinarian at all. It should be based on the condition in which you are making a claim.
The only difference that I could logically assume regarding who performs the service is a policy could distinguish between whether they cover service from a veterinarian versus a veterinary specialist. However, I have not seen this as a feature of any insurance policy.
It’s extremely important to read the fine print. It’s not uncommon for insurance policies to have features that they don’t make obvious when they advertise it. You can always consider contacting the company and asking questions to get a good understanding of the policy you are considering and whether it fits your needs. The fine print would indicate whether there are lifetime maximums on payouts, different amounts for deductibles, exclusion of certain conditions deemed to be pre-existing and changes in premium levels if claims are made. Please view our video, “Should I Get Pet Insurance” and our article, “Is Pet Insurance Worth It” to help figure out if it’s right for you. An insurance policy can certainly provide peace of mind, but the alternative is that you could put money away every month instead of paying a premium and then the account can be used if needed or returned if you don’t encounter a serious health problem. As a last point, I always encourage people to assess their pet’s risk of injury or disease based on their breed, lifestyle and wellness program.
I hope this helps. Good luck.
Dr. Clayton Greenway
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