Creating partnerships between veterinarians and underserved producers: getting started with establishing veterinary...

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Agricultural Science
• Animal Health Management

Background:

• The Veterinary Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR) is crucial for effective livestock management.
• Enhancing collaboration between veterinarians and producers can improve economic sustainability.
• Limited applied education opportunities exist for strengthening VCPR.

Purpose of the Study:

• To offer veterinarians and producers collaborative education on VCPR.
• To evaluate the impact of educational opportunities on VCPR knowledge and confidence.
• To foster VCPR establishment for improved livestock operation sustainability.

Main Methods:

• Two workshops focused on communication, VCPR, and telemedicine.
• Educational sessions utilized practical learning resources.
• Pre- and post-tests assessed changes in knowledge and confidence.

Main Results:

• Significant increases in participant knowledge and confidence regarding VCPR were observed.
• 27% of participants established a VCPR with their veterinarian post-workshop.
• The workshops effectively enhanced understanding of veterinary-producer partnerships.

Conclusions:

• Targeted educational outreach effectively builds and sustains veterinarian-producer relationships.
• Improved VCPR knowledge and attitudes can lead to better animal health outcomes.
• Strengthened VCPR contributes to more profitable and sustainable livestock operations and veterinary practices.