Electronic Selective - "Evaluation of Veterinary Literature"

Importance of Lifelong Learning

Veterinary practitioners face numerous challenges in keeping their practices current. For example, while providing regular veterinary and emergency care to their clients and struggling with the concerns of operating what is essentially a small business they are also faced with the responsibility of identifying and replacing information that has become obsolete since graduating from Veterinary School. As information in the field becomes available they must stay current or risk being viewed as not competent. If clients do not view the practitioner as competent, the practitioner will lose the competitive edge necessary to continue in business. In addition, many veterinarians are seen as information resources by public health officials. Practitioners are often asked to answer questions regarding zoonotic diseases with public health significance. This forces the practitioner to make decisions on what current literature on the topic is relevant and accurate. The challenges of remaining current are enormous, especially if the skills necessary are not taught early in their career.

Continue on to explore How Practitioners Keep Up-to-Date.