Assessment of costs and insurance policies for referral treatment of equine colic

What is it about?

Colic is the most common emergency problem in the horse, but treatment for critical cases can be expensive and difficult to predict . This study gathered costing data from veterinary hospitals that currently treat critical (medical and surgical) cases, and reviewed the policies and cover provided by the five main insurance providers. The average cost for horses having surgery was £6,438 (range £3,179-£9,100). Insurance cover for veterinary fees ranged from £5000-£7,500. The terms and conditions for the insurance policies were long and complex and the readability levels would be difficult for may people to understand. This study highlights that the costs of the majority of surgical cases would not be covered by most insurance policies, and that the insurance details can be difficult for owners to understand.

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