Strategically Speaking

ACVS is poised to make exceptional progress in 2023 as it expands the capabilities of CERT, ACVS’s new system for tracking certification requirements. The first stage of CERT, the resident training log, was launched in December. Within the next several weeks, ACVS will transition maintenance of certification records into the new system.

This momentum provides a strong foundation for other significant and important strategic work outlined in ACVS’s current five-year strategic plan. Efforts are unfolding toward achieving the plan’s objectives.

  • Focus on excellence in continuing education. Early this spring, Diplomates and surgery residents will receive a continuing education (CE) needs assessment that will inform efforts to improve the quality of and access to ongoing CE.
  • Maximize awareness. The redesign of the ACVS website, slated for June/July, will offer streamlined navigation, including Diplomate and resident hubs; a resource library; and timely news and information for Diplomates and residents prominently positioned on the homepage. Also, the Advisory Council of Diplomates and Primary Care Veterinarians is currently working on a communication tool to aid Diplomates in their referral relationships with PCVs.
  • Cultivate an engaged community. ACVS is broadening the opportunities for ACVS members to engage more fully with the College and strengthening the manner in which it shares information about volunteer positions.
  • Update training and certification. In addition to the launch of CERT, efforts are underway to further enhance support for residents, program directors, resident advisors, and residency programs. Recent efforts include a collection of short tutorial videos for residents and a webinar for resident advisors and program directors that provide support as they use the new system. In the coming months, working groups will be formed to initiate progress toward additional goals in this objective.

For a comprehensive overview of the current ACVS strategic plan, read the Fall 2022 update from ACVS CEO Ann T. Loew.