On the Art of Veterinary Medicine
Throughout our years at the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC), students are required to take a course called Art of Veterinary Medicine (AVM). The purpose of this course is to equip students in the program with the appropriate skills, behaviours, and attitudes necessary to best represent the veterinary profession when they enter their careers.
I consider this component to be one of the most overlooked — yet most important — in our journey to veterinary medicine. While the obvious importance of anatomy, virology, or surgery cannot be ignored, I find the ability to engage effectively and empathetically with clients is something often placed on the backburner.In fact, even at a time when more methods of interaction are available to us than ever before, there is a disheartening overall lack of true communication in general.Whether sharing our lunch on social media or seeking out our next beau on Tinder, we are capable of reaching just about anyone or anything with the touch of a button. Yet, when it comes to human connection, we seem to feel more isolated than ever before.
In the context of veterinary medicine, the role of communication is absolutely crucial. All the knowledge in the world will be meaningless if clinicians are unable to ascertain the needs of the animals they are to treat.
Behind every single patient we see stands at least one human on whom the animal’s needs depend. From obtaining all information pertinent to an accurate diagnosis, to ensuring the client understands and supports any follow-up actions necessary, the significance of communication cannot be overstated.Similarly, the words we use are only a fraction of the impression we make.Eye contact, tone of voice, body positioning — these are unconscious components of our actions that greatly influence how we are perceived by others. Moreover, it isn’t just the things we do or say, but how we do or say them.
Are my questions accusatory or genuine? Have I actively listened to the clients concerns or acknowledged them dismissively? Are difficult topics broached with compassion or intimidation?
The average veterinarian will conduct more than 100,000 appointment interviews during their career. How we engage with our clients will affect our clinics’ business and our profession’s reputation. More importantly, it will affect the care we can provide to those we have sworn to protect: our patients.
And, on that note, perhaps we could all use a little more AVM in our lives.
Photo by John Reed