Why are my bills increasing every year?
Horse owners often find veterinary healthcare costs rising annually. This trend reflects global inflation affecting the veterinary industry, including in KSA. Additionally, several factors contribute to the growing bills:
- Rising Education Costs: Veterinary education expenses are escalating, leaving new graduates burdened with substantial debts. In KSA, where equine specialists are scarce, imported expertise comes at a premium.
- Advancements in Medicine: Veterinary medicine continues to evolve, necessitating investment in advanced equipment and techniques akin to those used in human healthcare.
- Operational Expenses: Veterinary practices bear expenses typical of any business, including staffing costs, utilities, insurance, and licensing fees. Equine hospitals require specialized consumables and maintain in-house pharmacies, adding to operational costs.
While costs may seem high, consider the value of skilled veterinary care in safeguarding your horse’s health.
Are my bill, discharge notes, and case report separate documents?
Yes, your bill is a distinct document from both the discharge instructions and the case report. Upon discharge, the bill will reflect any deposits made during admission.
When do I settle my bill?
Payment is expected upon discharge. Your bill will outline the incurred procedures, consumables, and other expenses. If immediate payment is not feasible, a payment plan must be arranged with the Equine Hospital Finance team before collection.
What if I can't pay the full bill? Can I still take my horse?
Inform the hospital beforehand if full payment is unattainable. A payment plan must be agreed upon and signed by the Equine Hospital Finance Department before the horse leaves the premises. This arrangement must be settled during the hospital’s administrative working hours, from 9 AM to 4 PM, Sunday through Thursday. Failure to have a signed Payment Plan or an Increased<strong> Deposit/Late Repayment Form</strong> will result in the inability to discharge your horse.
What information is included in my bill and outstanding bill?
Your bill details case information, charges, adjustments, and payments. Duplicate charges may appear for procedures conducted multiple times in a day.
What if my statement appears incorrect?
Notify the hospital in writing of any discrepancies after full payment at finance@teh.sa. Overpayments will be refunded or credited. Queries do not warrant payment delays. You will receive a response within 7 days of receipt of the query.
How can I settle my bill?
Payment options include MADA card, credit card, cash, or bank transfer. Transfer receipt must be sent to the TEH Finance WhatsApp – 966537115981. Alternatively, payment plans can be arranged through the finance department during operating hours.
Is there a penalty for late payment?
Late payments may incur increased deposit fees, which will escalate over time until outstanding debts are settled. Communication and adherence to payment deadlines are crucial. The owner must provide up-to-date contact details, as the hospital will not take responsibility for any lack of communication if contact details are not current; this responsibility will fall solely on the owner.
Can I request a payment plan?
Submit a payment plan request form (found on the TEH website)to the Finance Department, which must be approved before horse collection. The agreed-upon terms must be adhered to.
How do I access financial information without visiting the website?
Financial details are available in the admission form and can be downloaded for review. Address any concerns before leaving your horse in the hospital’s care.