NAVC convened another HIVE pop-up event in Phoenix November 11-12. This conference focused on educational issues and opportunities for both veterinarians and credentialed veterinary technicians. It was an unusual gathering of leaders across the sector…unusual in its focus on education from content to accreditation. HIVE events recently in Austin and Minneapolis, and Long Beach next week, elevated veterinary technicians to the forefront. The goal for HIVE is to generate conversations, share updates and information to spotlight challenges and opportunities.
The issue of Colorado’s Proposition 129 was a primary topic and the highlight of November 12’s agenda. Industry leaders for the first time heard directly from VPA proponent, Apryl Steele (CEO of Denver Dumb Friends League) and a leader of the “yes” cause. She explained how a VPA would operate and the safeguards built into the ballot measure which now becomes law in Colorado. A lengthy agency rule-making process is the next step which gives all concerned (Yes and No organizations) an opportunity to weigh in on how the new profession will operate. Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine is preparing a new Masters curriculum to produce VPA professionals, and faculty member Wayne Jensen detailed the rigorous academic requirements for the program. Lincoln Memorial University College of Veterinary Medicine Dean Stacy Anderson shared how its existing mid-level program, a Masters in Veterinary Clinical Care, operates and future plans.
The lengthy discussion allowed for a plethora of questions and useful debate. This alone made HIVE unique as the profession and industry rarely enjoys spirited debate and tough questions to be asked and answered in public gatherings. The conference did not aim for a consensus or action plan as it concluded, but rather to launch a conversation. More HIVE events will follow this model and education will remain a compelling topic. Underlying every discussion was the continued presence of shortages of professionals across the pet health and large animal sectors. Readers may be assured that remedies, band-aids and strategic initiatives are being developed…and challenged at the same time. It’s too glib to describe the industry as facing a crossroads, but it was obvious from the HIVE event that no one is taking the current situation for granted or as inevitable. More to come for sure.