Technology’s Best Friend
Verteks helps Millhopper Veterinary Medical Center transition to a new practice management application while keeping the office’s systems and network purring.
Millhopper Veterinary Medical Center in Gainesville, Fla., doesn’t pussyfoot around when it comes to technology. Faced with the need to upgrade its IDEXX VetConnect practice management software, Dr. David Menard, DVM, called upon Verteks Consulting to oversee the project. Dr. Menard recognized the value of having experienced engineers available locally to support the clinic.
"When we were ready to implement new practice software, we called on Verteks to help with that,” said Dr. Menard. “We purchased most of our hardware through the software vendor but Verteks was able to assist with installation. The Verteks engineers came in and interfaced with the software vendor and helped to get all the hardware on the network. They made sure everything was working properly."
Dr. Menard had previously gone through an upgrade of his practice management software at his Paddock Park Animal Care Center in Ocala. That time, he allowed the software vendor to turnkey the entire project. He learned that the software vendor was focused primarily on its application and not the overall requirements of the business.
"The last time Dr. Menard made such a transition, IDEXX performed the project with no outside help, and the clinic experienced downtime. Working with Verteks provided a much smoother transition," said Pete Kamay, Solution Engineer, Verteks Consulting. "We coordinated with the software provider to install a new server and new workstations. We supported the transition from the old software to the new, minimizing downtime on all facets of the business."
Barking Up the Right Tree
A veterinary practice is, of course, a high-touch business. But like most organizations, Millhopper Veterinary Medical Center and Paddock Park Animal Care Center rely heavily upon technology for their operations. Verteks plays a key role in helping this new breed of veterinary practice get the most from its technology infrastructure.
Verteks has developed a strong relationship with Dr. Menard and a thorough understanding of his business needs. In addition to providing ongoing support, Verteks has the ability to assist with major software transitions and upgrades, keeping in mind all of the company’s technology requirements, not just one application.
"When we decided to go with the same software vendor we had used in Ocala in the new location in Gainesville, we realized we needed to do things a little differently. That’s why we called Verteks," said Dr. Menard. "Verteks got our network up and running, and made sure all the systems could ‘talk’ to each other. This was the first time we had them involved in interfacing between the software company and the hardware, and it was a big help."
Verteks has also helped Dr. Menard take advantage of technologies that can help increase efficiency. Verteks implemented a wireless network and a tablet device that gives Dr. Menard mobility throughout the clinic. Dr. Menard was so pleased with the solution that he asked Verteks to deploy additional tablets for his staff.
"The Verteks team is not only knowledgeable — they treat me as a valued customer," he said. “When they recommend new solutions, they do so with the best interests of my practice in mind. I have a great deal of trust and confidence in their ability to meet the needs of my business."
Loyal Companion
Just as regular checkups are important for Dr. Menard’s furry patients, preventive maintenance helps ensure that the computer systems in both veterinary practices stay up and running. Verteks provides ongoing support to make sure Dr. Menard’s servers, workstations and networks are functioning properly. If something does go awry, highly trained and experienced technicians are there to help.
"Verteks has been helping us with the systems at our Paddock Park practice in Ocala for some time," Dr. Menard said. "Now they provide support at both locations as well as assistance with special projects such as this software upgrade. It’s working out well for us to have a local provider we can turn to for help as needed."
Although Dr. Menard has a nose for technology, he fully relies on Verteks for IT know-how and support. When you’re running a veterinary practice — or any business — you need computers to work right and help you do your job. If Dr. Menard has to treat his computer systems like he does his patients, he’s not getting the best value for his IT investment. That’s why he relies on Verteks.
"The Verteks team is always available to help us with any technology issues we may have,” he said. “They’re never too busy to help or talk down to you or dismiss your issues in any way. It gives you peace of mind to know that highly skilled IT professionals are available to answer your questions. I would definitely recommend Verteks Consulting."
