Our interpersonal and communication skills are as important as our knowledge and clinical skills in veterinary medicine. It's imperative that clients perceive your clinic as a welcoming and safe place, free of judgment, and that you and your team pose no threat to them. In doing so, clients are more apt to listen and give stronger consideration to our recommendations. The same is true for our co-workers or employees. If they perceive bias, lack of acceptance, or feel marginalized, it can have far-reaching consequences to the practice as well as the animals under our care.
Dr. Sandra San Miguel - Associate Dean for Engagement and a Professor at Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine - recently spoke with me about the importance of recognizing and embracing diversity in the veterinary practice setting and the role it can play in client retention as well as employee performance:
Our clients and co-workers come from many different walks of life. Race, gender identity, sexual orientation, and disabilities are just a few of the differences we encounter in the workplace today. It's as important as ever to be knowledgeable about these differences as well as how to demonstrate inclusiveness.
I proudly invite your attention to a recent announcement regarding VetVine's partnership with Purdue University, and our commitment to support and promote inclusive work environments that are welcoming to both veterinary professionals and their clients.
Purdue University's Center of Excellence for Diversity and Inclusion in Veterinary Medicine hosts the TOGETHER Program - an online educational offering for veterinarians and veterinary technicians. Participating veterinarians and veterinary technicians of a practice who complete the program will earn a Certificate, pin, and 9 hours of CE credit, and the participating practice will earn a Certificate and Decal for display.
TOGETHER Program topics include:
Diversity lingo
Stereotyping
Microaggressions
LGBT communication
Spanish-speaking clients and colleagues
Persons with disabilities
Gender and generational diversity
VetVine Members save 10% on the course registration fee! ($270 per person - regularly $300 per person)
If you have questions about this program or the opportunity to enroll your practice's team of veterinarians and veterinary technicians, please contact me!
