A Wealth of Knowledge

Yesterday's blog about specialists was pretty timely. One of those local specialists, Dr. Sullivan, who is a veterinary ophthalmologist, very graciously took the time tonight to share with a room full of general practitioners some pearls of wisdom from his field. He talked about some of the more common eye conditions we might see in practice and those that warrant referral. There are some newer medications and surgical procedures available, and the videos he showed of some of those procedures were pretty darned cool. Little endoscopic instruments inside a dog's eye, repositioning a detached retina-absolutely amazing. Eye surgery isn't just for your Grandma anymore.

I am very fortunate to have had the opportunity to hear Dr. Sullivan talk tonight. Things change rapidly in the veterinary medicine field, so I welcome the chance to learn whenever I can. Did you realize that continuing education is actually a requirement of the licensure of veterinarians in our state? It isn't much-40 hours of classes every 2 years-and a veterinarian is required to keep their own records of those classes. I know that there are certainly ways to skirt around the requirements for those who are too busy or don't believe in the necessity of those requirements. But I believe it is an attempt by the licensing board to ensure that its doctors remain as current as is possible in their knowledge and skills. I, for one, am glad of the requirements and routinely acquire several times the required number of credits for my benefit and for the sake of my clients and patients. I cherish every opportunity to learn and better myself, and encourage that attitude in all of my staff members as well.

Opportunities for CE come in many forms. Drug companies and suppliers often sponsor them by arranging a dinner and providing the speaker as was done for Dr. Sullivan tonight. We often schedule "lunch and learn" sessions in our hospital on specific topics like flea control or prescription diets. Large conferences where numerous lectures and laboratories are offered are held in various locations all over the world, literally. Attendees might combine learning with skiing in Colorado or snorkeling in Hawaii for example. Oh, that snorkeling sure sounds good about now, doesn't it?

Even though it isn't required for them, continuing education helps every staff member in their respective jobs. It adds interest for them, increases their personal skills and knowledge, opportunities for advancement, and supports the rest of the team. Since not everyone can go to every available class, nor has the interest to do so, we usually ask those who have recently attended a class or seminar to share the information with the others at a staff meeting or through handouts they might put together. I really believe in sharing the wealth of knowledge-it does wonders for our team spirit, and can only benefit our patients.

Peace,
DrReneigh