Firstline editors want you to contribute
Firstline is looking for innovative team members to share ideas with the magazine and veterinary practices nationwide.
The status of veterinary team members is on a steady upward climb. The very existence of this magazine, which was originally launched in 1996, is a testament to that. There are other—dare I say, more significant—clues too. One major development that reflects the increasing value of team members is the myriad certification opportunities that continue to pop up.
For example, the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) announced last month that it provisionally recognized the Academy of Veterinary Technicians in Clinical Practice (AVTCP) as a veterinary technician specialty. The AVTCP's species-specific certification mirrors that of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners. (For details, click here.)
This new technician specialty is the ninth recognized by NAVTA, which is also working on certification for veterinary technician assistants. And we can't forget the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association (VHMA), which grants the credential of Certified Veterinary Practice Manager. (One thing we're missing: A national veterinary receptionists' group. Maybe you're the one to start it?)
Another signal that veterinary team members continue to rise in stature is the continual improvement in pet care. Veterinarians play a large part in this, but they couldn't do it without you. Every single member of the team contributes to the health of pets, whether it's by freeing up the doctor's time or by ensuring clients schedule wellness visits. Pets need you, plain and simple.
And Firstline needs you, too. We're looking for innovative team members to share ideas with us—and with veterinary practices across the country. If you're interested in contributing, e-mail us at firstline@advanstar.com. Do you have a tip that could make others' work lives easier? We want to know. Did you come up with a sharp marketing plan? We want to know. Are you just passionate about your job and want to get involved any way you can? E-mail and tell us a little bit about yourself. We can't wait to work with you to keep elevating team members—and pets' health.
Kerry Hillard Johnson, Editor
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