Though our numbers are relatively small, we make a difference. Sticking together as a veterinary community to support each other is crucial.
People who choose a profession in veterinary medicine are generally giving, selfless people. Many are also perfectionists, leading to long hours at work and being very hard on themselves.
The president-elect of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), Dr. Doug Kratt, gives us insight into how organizations like AVMA can help cultivate the veterinary community. This Quick Cup of Knowledge focuses on resources that help veterinary professionals overcome challenges and have a voice in the community.
Because we’re perfectionists, we get bogged down with what’s not going great instead of looking optimistically at potential and opportunity. We’re part of a great profession! Organizations on the local, state, and national level work to make the veterinary industry an even better place to work. They give individuals resources regarding wellness, professional training, personal development, and other issues.
I’m just one person. Where do I go to express my concerns?
The veterinary community is vast, with so many different specialties and roles. If you don’t feel like you have a voice, how do you communicate your needs? Dr. Kratt says to go to the AVMA website and find the representatives for your state.
Did you know that you have three AVMA leaders who would be excited to communicate with you directly about what you need? One of the many benefits of organized medicine is the ability to make the profession better by having direct access to leadership.
Do initiatives from organized medicine actually make a difference?
Previously, it was hard to measure the effectiveness of initiatives put forward by organizations like AVMA. Now, they can track the use and the value of programs and initiatives where we couldn’t before. This allows them to continue improving programs and adjust to find new ways of reaching the veterinary community.
Because veterinary professionals vary so much in specialty and personal background, the ability to track the participation and results in differing demographics more effectively helps the many different groups within the industry.
How does organized medicine cultivate the veterinary community?
Local, regional, and nationally organized medicine allows us to come together as a community to help each other. Reminding ourselves to plan time to recharge is for the benefit of not only ourselves, but our patients, our teams, and our families.
Getting involved gives you another support system, resources for personal health, and opportunities to elevate your career. Conversations that lead to positive change are being had now that were only privately had before, or as Dr. Kratt says, were had in “the shadows.” Participation in these organizations is the cultivation of a great community, making veterinary medicine better every day.
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