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Emergency

Vet bill too high: check the fee schedule (GOT)

Veterinarians bill according to the fee schedule for veterinarians (GOT). It sets a fee framework within which a multiplier may be applied, and higher in the emergency service. A bill outside the framework or with an unjustifiably high multiplier you can question and dispute.

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Your chances of getting your money back

The GOT sets a fee framework for veterinary services with a one- to threefold rate; in the emergency service an additional separate emergency-service fee applies. Within this framework the vet has a discretion that must be based on the effort.
A multiplier above the usual must be justified by special effort or difficulty. If the bill is outside the GOT framework or the rate is not comprehensible, you can dispute it.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Break down the bill

    Demand a comprehensible list of the individual services and the applied rates.

  2. 2

    2. Check the GOT framework

    Compare the rates with the GOT framework and check an increased multiplier for justification.

  3. 3

    3. Classify the emergency service

    In the emergency service, higher fees and an emergency-service flat rate are permitted, that explains some high bills.

  4. 4

    4. Dispute

    Dispute in writing items that are not comprehensible or go beyond the framework.

How to spot the scam

  • The multiplier is high without any special effort being apparent.
  • Items are not broken down comprehensibly.
  • Services are billed that were not provided.

Frequently asked questions

Are vet prices free?

No. Veterinarians bill according to the fee schedule for veterinarians (GOT), which sets a fee framework. Within this framework a multiplier may be applied, which must be based on the effort and the difficulty. In the emergency service, higher rates apply.

What does the multiplier mean?

The GOT allows, depending on effort, a one- to threefold rate. An increased rate must be justified by special time expenditure, difficulty or circumstances. A flatly high rate without justification is attackable.

How do I fight an excessive bill?

Demand an exact breakdown, compare the rates with the GOT framework and check the multiplier. Dispute in writing items that are not comprehensible or go beyond the framework. Emergency-service fees, however, are permitted.

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.