Leading the Way in Science-Based Medicine with Clinical Study Participation
April 11, 2025As part of the Ethos Veterinary Health network, Southeast Veterinary Oncology & Internal Medicine (SEVO) in Jacksonville, Florida is a leader in science-driven specialty care. At SEVO, scientific discovery isn’t just encouraged — it’s embedded in the culture. That’s why the team actively participates in clinical studies through our Science team, ensuring pets have access to the latest breakthroughs in veterinary medicine. Most recently, SEVO joined a groundbreaking study with IDEXX focused on early cancer detection in dogs.
Making science easy to access
For Medical Director Zachary Neumann, DVM, DACVIM (Oncology), the experience has been seamless — and deeply rewarding.
“The Science team has done a fantastic job making sure trial involvement takes up very little of our clinic time,” he said. “Their systems are well-integrated, and the support from their team makes participation incredibly straightforward — even for hospitals new to clinical studies.”
The smooth integration has allowed SEVO to focus on what it does best: provide exceptional care. But the benefits of study participation go far beyond logistics. Dr. Neumann noted a change at the hospital once participation in the study began. “It’s been incredibly energizing for our team. There’s a real sense of pride in being on the cutting edge of veterinary medicine and contributing to something bigger than ourselves.” Clinical studies have fostered greater collaboration among the team and strengthened their shared commitment to lifelong learning and innovation.
Dr. Neumann encourages other hospitals to participate in clinical studies through our Science team. “Dr. Hill and her team are phenomenal. They’re approachable, responsive, and always willing to walk through any questions or concerns,” he said. “Their passion for advancing veterinary science is contagious, and they do a fantastic job balancing scientific rigor with practical implementation in the clinic.”
Inside the IDEXX Study: The future of early detection
SEVO’s recent study participation centered on the IDEXX Cancer Dx™ study, which evaluates a test to detect canine lymphoma before clinical signs appear. The test has the potential to redefine how veterinarians approach cancer care.
“The idea that we can detect lymphoma before clinical signs appear is a total game-changer,” Dr. Neumann said. “If this holds up long-term, it could shift the focus from late-stage treatment to early intervention. This could mean better outcomes, longer survival times, and a major quality-of-life improvement for our patients.”
While Dr. Neumann typically sees patients only after they’ve been diagnosed, he sees this test as a valuable tool that could bring cancer patients to specialists like him earlier in the process. And with studies showing that 73% of pet owners are interested in cancer screening for their pets, the demand is certainly there. “Owners are always interested in ways to detect cancer via blood samples,” he said. “It’s something they’re eager to learn more about.”
Offering access to innovative diagnostics like the IDEXX test and participating in clinical research has helped SEVO stand out from other specialty hospitals in the region. But more importantly, it’s reinforced their mission to lead with science and provide the best possible care for pets and their families.
By embracing science-based medicine and actively contributing to the future of veterinary oncology, SEVO continues to raise the bar — not just for its hospital but for the entire field.
Learn more about Science Consultancy at Ethos