Establishing a veterinary practice involves medical expertise and the need for solid hiring practices. Conducting thorough background checks is crucial whether you are hiring veterinarians or associates or acquiring another practice. That's where Mahan Law can assist you.
Our team has the skills and experience to help protect your practice and clients and establish a trusted working environment. With a network of widely respected veterinary attorneys, we advise veterinary professionals nationwide on all aspects of practice management. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Why Background Checks Matter in Veterinary Practices
Hiring the right people is essential for maintaining a reputable and successful practice. Background checks help mitigate risks associated with hiring, such as:
- Malpractice–Avoid potential claims or legal disputes by verifying a candidate's professional history.
- Theft and misconduct–Ensure candidates have no record of financial or ethical violations that could damage your practice's reputation.
- Reputation management–By thoroughly vetting candidates, you maintain a professional environment, which translates to better client trust and loyalty.
Conducting comprehensive background checks minimizes the chances of onboarding individuals with problematic histories, helping to create a safer, more productive workplace.
Types of Background Checks for Veterinary Professionals
A robust background check should include various components to ensure you hire competent and trustworthy staff:
Credential Verification
Confirm that the candidate's veterinary licenses and certifications are valid and up-to-date. This ensures compliance with state regulations and guarantees that the individual has the qualifications to practice.
Criminal History Checks
Review any criminal records to determine if a candidate has past convictions that could affect their suitability for the role. Focus on offenses relevant to the veterinary field, such as drug misuse, fraud, or violent behavior.
Employment History & References
Verify past employment, particularly in other veterinary practices. This confirms their experience and provides insight into their work ethic and professional behavior. Speaking directly with previous employers offers valuable information that may not be found in written references alone.
Drug Testing
Conduct drug screening to ensure candidates meet the health and safety standards required in a clinical environment. This is particularly important for roles involving controlled substances or surgical procedures.
In short, implementing a consistent and compliant background check process is key to effective hiring.
Legal Considerations
Navigating the legal aspects of background checks is crucial to avoid potential claims and disputes. Veterinary practices must ensure that their background check policies align with state and federal regulations to minimize liability. Key legal considerations include:
- Avoiding discrimination–Background checks must be applied consistently across all candidates. Practices must have clear guidelines on relevant information and ensure that only job-related factors influence hiring decisions.
- Handling sensitive information–Background checks may reveal sensitive data, such as criminal history or health-related issues. Veterinary professionals must handle this information properly, limit access, and ensure confidentiality.
Working with an experienced veterinary attorney is the best way to establish a compliant background check process.
Protect Your Veterinary Practice with Proper Background Checks
Implementing comprehensive veterinary background checks is essential for protecting your practice and ensuring a safe, professional environment. By verifying credentials, checking criminal histories, and following legal best practices, veterinary professionals can minimize risks and build a trustworthy team.
At Mahan Law, we provide guidance tailored to veterinary professionals, helping practices establish secure, lawful hiring procedures. Contact us today for a consultation and ensure your practice is set up for success.