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Arbe Montoya AI, Hazel SJ, Hebart ML, McArthur ML. Risk factors associated with veterinary attrition from clinical practice: a descriptive study. Aust Vet J 2021; 99:495-501. [PMID: 34389973 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
A sustainable workforce is important for the veterinary profession to meet the demands of society. To maintain a sustainable workforce, it has been recommended to retain veterinary clinicians. However, there seems to be an increasing issue with retention of veterinarians in clinical practice. In the following study, the researchers sought to understand the associations between demographic and work-related factors and attrition of veterinarians from clinical practice. Responses to an online cross-sectional survey of 881 current and former Australian veterinary clinicians were analysed. A logistic regression model was used to identify and describe associations between attrition from veterinary clinical practice and salary, working hours, role in practice, years of experience, field of work, interaction with regulatory authorities, region of work and on-call duties. Lower salary, longer working hours, having on-call duties and having worked in both rural and metropolitan regions were found to significantly (P < 0.05) increase the likelihood of leaving clinical practice. The results may inform intervention strategies to assist the industry to retain veterinarians in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- A I Arbe Montoya
- School of Animal and Veterinary Science, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, 5371, Australia
| | - S J Hazel
- School of Animal and Veterinary Science, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, 5371, Australia
| | - M L Hebart
- School of Animal and Veterinary Science, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, 5371, Australia
| | - M L McArthur
- School of Animal and Veterinary Science, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, 5371, Australia
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2
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Clise MH, Matthew SM, McArthur ML. Sources of pleasure in veterinary work: A qualitative study. Vet Rec 2021; 188:e54. [PMID: 33818770 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the rise in positive psychology within organisational settings, less is known about the positive factors associated with veterinary work and veterinarian well-being. This qualitative study investigated sources of pleasure for veterinarians. METHOD A subset of archival data from a larger study on veterinary well-being was analysed. The current study was based on data from 273 veterinarians responding to a Ten Statements Test (TST) and demographic questions. In the TST, participants provided up to 10 responses to the prompt, 'I derive pleasure in my work as a veterinarian when…'. RESULTS Using the job demands-resources model as a framework, a total of 2536 responses were manually coded into themes relating to resources (positive responses) or demands (responses indicating a negative factor). In order of frequency, job resources are related to professional expertise (22%), positive outcomes (20%), job characteristics (19%), relationships (16%), recognition (10%), helping (7%) and personal resources (3%). Top job demands are related to stress and fatigue (17%) and poor work-life balance (16%). CONCLUSION The results suggest that there are an abundance of positive factors in veterinary work associated with feelings of pleasure, which may support veterinarian well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine H Clise
- School of Psychology, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Susan M Matthew
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Washington, USA
| | - Michelle L McArthur
- School of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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3
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Clise MH, Kirby N, McArthur ML. Is veterinary work more than satisfying? A critical review of the literature. Vet Rec 2021; 188:e77. [PMID: 34018567 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.77] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Despite the rise of positive psychology in recent times, research continues to emphasise the risks and negative outcomes associated with veterinary work. Understanding these challenges and risks is imperative in helping those affected and preventing or limiting exposure for future veterinarians. However, it is vital that positive factors associated with their well-being are concomitantly addressed. Drawing on an organisational psychology perspective and associated theories, this review critically analyses the literature on veterinary well-being, job satisfaction and the role of positive emotions at work. This perspective prompts a call to researchers to investigate the positive aspects of veterinary work and offers many suggestions for future research and associated implications. Drawing on an extensive evidence base of research pertaining to positive emotions and well-being in veterinarians, the development, implementation and validation of workplace interventions should follow. The veterinary profession is a highly rewarding one and a focus on pleasure in veterinary work and ways to encourage this, will only help veterinarians flourish and help to promote the profession in the way it deserves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine H Clise
- School of Psychology, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Neil Kirby
- School of Psychology, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Michelle L McArthur
- School of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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4
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Arbe Montoya AI, Hazel SJ, Matthew SM, McArthur ML. Why do veterinarians leave clinical practice? A qualitative study using thematic analysis. Vet Rec 2021; 188:e2. [DOI: 10.1002/vetr.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra I. Arbe Montoya
- School of Animal and Veterinary Science The University of Adelaide Roseworthy South Australia Australia
| | - Susan J. Hazel
- School of Animal and Veterinary Science The University of Adelaide Roseworthy South Australia Australia
| | - Susan M. Matthew
- College of Veterinary Medicine Washington State University Pullman Washington USA
| | - Michelle L. McArthur
- School of Animal and Veterinary Science The University of Adelaide Roseworthy South Australia Australia
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5
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Arbe Montoya AI, Hazel S, Matthew SM, McArthur ML. Moral distress in veterinarians. Vet Rec 2019; 185:631. [PMID: 31427407 DOI: 10.1136/vr.105289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Revised: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Moral distress is a psychological state of anguish that has been widely studied in healthcare professionals. Experiencing moral distress can lead to problems including avoidance of patients and increased staff turnover. Moral distress in veterinarians has not yet been explored to the extent seen in the human medical field, and there is limited data regarding moral distress in veterinarians. However, it is expected to be prevalent in these professionals. So far, it has been reported that veterinarians commonly experience moral conflict, ethical challenges and ethical dilemmas during their career. These conflicts in association with other modifying factors such as personality traits can lead to the experience of moral distress. In a profession with known levels of occupational stress and reported mental health problems, exploring the area of moral distress and its effects on the professional wellbeing of veterinarians is important. Further studies such as developing a moral distress scale to measure this issue are needed in order to evaluate the incidence of this problem in veterinary professionals. Furthermore, assessing a possible relationship between moral distress, mental illness and attrition in veterinarians would be useful in developing intervention strategies to minimise the experience of moral distress and its associated negative consequences in veterinarians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra I Arbe Montoya
- Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
| | - Susan Hazel
- Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
| | - Susan M Matthew
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Michelle L McArthur
- Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia
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6
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Attitudes and Practices of Australian Veterinary Professionals and Students towards Early Age Desexing of Cats. Animals (Basel) 2018; 9:ani9010002. [PMID: 30577561 PMCID: PMC6356715 DOI: 10.3390/ani9010002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Revised: 12/14/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Globally, desexing is used to reduce/prevent overpopulation of cats. However, its effective use is hampered by widely held views that it should occur at around six months of age, whereas female cats can breed from four months of age. As a result, many cats may have an unplanned litter before they are desexed. In Australia, increasing numbers of municipalities are mandating desexing of cats by three months of age, before the traditional age of 4–6 months. Achieving this goal requires support from veterinary professionals, so we used online and face-to-face surveys to determine the preferred desexing ages for cats and rationale of 957 Australian veterinarians, veterinary nurses, veterinary science students, and veterinary nursing students. A complementary survey of 299 veterinary practice websites across Australia documented information provided about desexing cats. Vet nurses and nursing students were more conservative than vets or vet students, preferring to desex cats (especially females) after four months because of concerns about anaesthetic risk. Over half of surveyed websites provided no information about desexing cats or offered desexing without explaining why it was necessary or when to perform it. In Australia, the preferences and practices of some current/future veterinary professionals do not match changing cat legislation. Abstract Surgical desexing of cats is typically carried out after six months of age (Mature Age Desexing, MAD); between 4–6 months (Traditional Age Desexing, TAD); or before four months (Early Age Desexing, EAD). We complemented existing surveys of veterinarians’ acceptance of EAD with online and face-to-face surveys, to ascertain the preferred desexing ages for cats and rationale of 957 Australian veterinarians, veterinary nurses, veterinary science students, and veterinary nursing students. A complementary survey of 299 veterinary practice websites across Australia documented any information provided about desexing cats. The most common reason for preferred desexing ages was reducing stray cat populations (30%); 78% of these respondents chose ages aligning with EAD. Vet nurses and nursing students were more conservative than vets or vet students, preferring to desex cats >4 months. Perceived anaesthetic risk was a major motivation, especially for nurses ≤5 years’ experience. Across 299 urban practices in Australian capital cities, 55% of surveyed websites provided no information about desexing cats or listed desexing without explaining why it was necessary, or when to perform it. Increasingly, Australian legislatures mandate desexing of cats by three months of age, so the practices of some current/future veterinary professionals do not match changing legislation.
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Gregory KP, Matthew SM, Baguley JA. Analysis of the costs of veterinary education and factors associated with financial stress among veterinary students in Australia. Aust Vet J 2017; 96:11-16. [PMID: 29231249 DOI: 10.1111/avj.12655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2013] [Revised: 09/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the course-related and other costs involved in obtaining a veterinary education in Australia and how these costs are met. The study also aimed to identify sociodemographic and course-related factors associated with increased financial stress. METHODS Students from seven Australian veterinary schools were surveyed using an online questionnaire. A total of 443 students participated (response rate 17%). Responses to survey items relating to finances, employment and course-related costs were compared with sociodemographic factors and prior research in the area of student financial stress. RESULTS Respondents reported spending a median of A$300 per week on living costs and a median of A$2,000 per year on course-related expenses. Over half of respondents received the majority of their income from their parents or Youth Allowance (56%). A similar proportion (55%) reported that they needed to work to meet basic living expenses. Circumstances and sociodemographic factors linked to perceived financial stress included requiring additional finances to meet unexpected costs during the course; sourcing additional finances from external loans; an expected tuition debt at graduation over A$40,000; being 22 years or older; working more than 12 hours per week; living costs above A$300 per week; and being female. CONCLUSION The costs involved in obtaining a veterinary education in Australia are high and over half of respondents are reliant on parental or Government income support. Respondents with certain sociodemographic profiles are more prone to financial stress. These findings may have implications for the psychological health, diversity and career plans of veterinary students in Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- K P Gregory
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - S M Matthew
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, WA, USA
| | - J A Baguley
- Veterinary Practitioners Board of NSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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8
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorna Treanor
- Nottingham University Business School; University of Nottingham; Nottingham NG8 1BB UK
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9
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Smyth GB. Collation of data on applicants, offers, acceptances, students and graduates in veterinary science in Australia 2001-2013. Aust Vet J 2016; 94:4-11. [DOI: 10.1111/avj.12396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2014] [Revised: 02/16/2015] [Accepted: 05/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Adam K, Baillie S, Rushton J. Retaining vets in farm animal practice: a cross-sectional study. Vet Rec 2015; 176:655. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.103170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- K. Adam
- Royal Veterinary College; Hawkshead Lane Hatfield Hertfordshire AL9 7TA UK
| | - S. Baillie
- University of Bristol School of Veterinary Sciences; Langford House Langford Bristol BS40 5DU UK
| | - J. Rushton
- Royal Veterinary College; Hawkshead Lane Hatfield Hertfordshire AL9 7TA UK
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11
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Kedrowicz AA, Fish RE, Hammond S. Relationship between anticipatory socialization experiences and first-year veterinary students' career interests. JOURNAL OF VETERINARY MEDICAL EDUCATION 2015; 42:18-27. [PMID: 25572335 DOI: 10.3138/jvme.0814-083r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this project was to explore first-year veterinary students' anticipatory socialization-life, education, and social experiences that assist in preparation for professional occupations-and determine what relationship exists between those experiences and career interests. Seventy-three first-year veterinary students enrolled in the Careers in Veterinary Medicine course completed the Veterinary Careers survey. Results show that students' anticipatory vocational socialization experiences are significantly related to their stated career interests. The career interests with the highest percentage of students expressing "a great deal of interest" included specialty private practice (37%), research and teaching in an academic setting (33%), and international veterinary medicine (31%). The career interests with the highest percentage of students expressing "no interest at all" included the military (50%), equine private practice (42%), and the pharmaceutical industry (41%). Less than half of the students (42%) stated that they reconsidered their career path after the first semester of veterinary school, but the majority (87%) developed a better understanding of how to pursue a nontraditional career path should they choose to do so.
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13
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Fish RE, Griffith EH. Career attitudes of first-year veterinary students before and after a required course on veterinary careers. JOURNAL OF VETERINARY MEDICAL EDUCATION 2014; 41:243-252. [PMID: 24794169 DOI: 10.3138/jvme.0114-008r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Careers in Veterinary Medicine is a required, one-credit-hour course at the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine (NCSU-CVM), which meets once weekly during veterinary students' first semester. Lectures in this course are presented by one or more veterinarians representing diverse career areas. A voluntary, anonymous survey was distributed before the first class meeting in 2011 (PRE) and at the end of the semester (POST) to assess if students' career interests changed during the semester. The survey collected basic demographic data and students' preferences (on a Likert scale) for 17 veterinary career paths. Out of 63 students, 36 (57%) in the POST survey said that their career interests had changed during the semester, and 17 of the 26 students (65%) who gave a reason credited the careers course as one factor in reconsidering their career choice. Only 3 of the 17 career paths had statistically significant PRE/POST survey differences in Likert response frequency (equine practice, pathology, and wildlife medicine), but both informal discussions with students and responses to open-ended survey questions indicated that many students valued the introduction to unfamiliar veterinary career areas. Careers in Veterinary Medicine is a vital component of recent career-planning initiatives in the college, which will be especially important to veterinary students as they face continued changes in the profession, such as the increased debt load of the new graduate and the threat of veterinary workforce oversupply.
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14
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare Boulton
- RCVS Charitable Trust; Belgravia House, 62-64 Horseferry Road London SW1P 2AF
| | - Jennifer McIntyre
- RCVS Charitable Trust; Belgravia House, 62-64 Horseferry Road London SW1P 2AF
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15
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Platt B, Hawton K, Simkin S, Mellanby RJ. Suicidal behaviour and psychosocial problems in veterinary surgeons: a systematic review. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2012; 47:223-40. [PMID: 21181111 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-010-0328-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2010] [Accepted: 12/01/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Rates of suicide are elevated among veterinary surgeons in several countries, yet little is known about contributory factors. We have conducted a systematic review of studies investigating suicidal behaviour and psychosocial problems in veterinary surgeons. METHODS A systematic search of the international research literature was performed in May 2008. Data from 52 studies of non-fatal suicidal behaviour, mental health difficulties, stress and burnout, occupational difficulties, and psychological characteristics of veterinary surgeons were extracted by two independent reviewers and analysed. Studies were rated for quality and greater emphasis placed on findings from higher quality studies. RESULTS The majority of studies were of stress and occupational difficulties experienced by veterinary surgeons. Occupational stressors included managerial aspects of the job, long working hours, heavy workload, poor work-life balance, difficult client relations, and performing euthanasia. Few studies investigated suicidal behaviour or mental health difficulties in the profession. Some studies suggested that young and female veterinarians are at greatest risk of negative outcomes such as suicidal thoughts, mental health difficulties, and job dissatisfaction. CONCLUSIONS The review highlights the difficulties faced by veterinary surgeons that may contribute to poor mental wellbeing and suicidal behaviour. Future research might include further examination of the influence of euthanasia on attitudes towards suicide and more direct examination of the impact that occupational risk factors might have on suicidal behaviour. Suggestions about the review's implications for suicide prevention in this group are also made.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belinda Platt
- Centre for Suicide Research, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7JX, UK.
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Matthew SM, Ellis RA, Taylor RM. New graduates' conceptions of and approaches to veterinary professional practice, and relationships to achievement during an undergraduate internship programme. ADVANCES IN HEALTH SCIENCES EDUCATION : THEORY AND PRACTICE 2011; 16:167-182. [PMID: 20924786 DOI: 10.1007/s10459-010-9252-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2010] [Accepted: 09/21/2010] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
New graduate veterinarians report differing experiences of the transition to practice. Some make a rapid transition to professional autonomy while others require prolonged and extensive support from their colleagues. Factors contributing to this variation are unclear. This study used phenomenography to analyse the conceptions of and approaches to veterinary professional practice (VPP) reported by new graduates in semi-structured interviews (n = 22). Quantitative statistical analysis was used to investigate links between the quality of graduates' experiences and their achievement during a comprehensive final year internship programme. Strong associations were identified between the quality of graduates' conceptions of and approaches to VPP. Links were also established between the quality of graduates' conceptions of VPP and their performance in practice prior to graduation. The outcomes of this research can be used to improve teaching and assessment during final year internships and enhance graduate attribute statements for professional degree programmes. The results also indicate that student learning research methodologies can be used to evaluate the quality of graduates' experiences in the workplace. This has implications for career outcomes research in a range of healthcare professions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan M Matthew
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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Tomlin JL, Brodbelt DC, May SA. Veterinary students’ understanding of a career in practice. Vet Rec 2010; 166:781-6. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.b4842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J. L. Tomlin
- Royal Veterinary College; Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms Hertfordshire AL9 7TA
| | - D. C. Brodbelt
- Royal Veterinary College; Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms Hertfordshire AL9 7TA
| | - S. A. May
- Royal Veterinary College; Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms Hertfordshire AL9 7TA
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18
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Tomlin JL, Brodbelt DC, May SA. Influences on the decision to study veterinary medicine: variation with sex and background. Vet Rec 2010; 166:744-8. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.b4834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J. L. Tomlin
- Royal Veterinary College; Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms Hertfordshire AL9 7TA
| | - D. C. Brodbelt
- Royal Veterinary College; Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms Hertfordshire AL9 7TA
| | - S. A. May
- Royal Veterinary College; Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms Hertfordshire AL9 7TA
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Scuffham AM, Legg SJ, Firth EC, Stevenson MA. Prevalence and risk factors associated with musculoskeletal discomfort in New Zealand veterinarians. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2010; 41:444-453. [PMID: 19857858 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2009.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2009] [Revised: 09/19/2009] [Accepted: 09/29/2009] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
A cross-sectional study using a modified Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire asked 867 New Zealand veterinarians about the presence or absence of musculoskeletal discomfort (MSD). Participants were asked if MSD affected their normal activities and if it required any period(s) of absence from work. Additional questions enquired about work activities, psychosocial factors and workload. A binary logistic regression analysis was used to quantify the association between identified risk factors and the presence of MSD requiring absence from work in the previous 12 months, controlling for the presence of known confounders. The overall period prevalence of MSD was 96%, 67% had normal activities being affected and 18% of participants reported that they had been absent from work due to MSD. The lower back was the body site most commonly reported for MSD (73%). Factors increasing the odds of MSD requiring time off work for clinical veterinarians were 10 year increases in age (OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.05-1.52), work involving awkward grip and hand movements 100% of time (OR 12.91, 95% CI 3.46-4.21) and those who were dissatisfied with the level and difficulty of their work (OR 2.27, 95% CI 1.11-6.56). These findings have implications for health, lifestyle and retention rates for veterinarians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M Scuffham
- Centre for Ergonomics, Occupational Safety and Health, Department of Management, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.
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20
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Bartram DJ, Baldwin DS. Veterinary surgeons and suicide: a structured review of possible influences on increased risk. Vet Rec 2010; 166:388-97. [PMID: 20348468 DOI: 10.1136/vr.b4794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Veterinary surgeons are known to be at a higher risk of suicide compared with the general population. There has been much speculation regarding possible mechanisms underlying the increased suicide risk in the profession, but little empirical research. A computerised search of published literature on the suicide risk and influences on suicide among veterinarians, with comparison to the risk and influences in other occupational groups and in the general population, was used to develop a structured review. Veterinary surgeons have a proportional mortality ratio (PMR) for suicide approximately four times that of the general population and around twice that of other healthcare professions. A complex interaction of possible mechanisms may occur across the course of a veterinary career to increase the risk of suicide. Possible factors include the characteristics of individuals entering the profession, negative effects during undergraduate training, work-related stressors, ready access to and knowledge of means, stigma associated with mental illness, professional and social isolation, and alcohol or drug misuse (mainly prescription drugs to which the profession has ready access). Contextual effects such as attitudes to death and euthanasia, formed through the profession's routine involvement with euthanasia of companion animals and slaughter of farm animals, and suicide 'contagion' due to direct or indirect exposure to suicide of peers within this small profession are other possible influences.
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Affiliation(s)
- D J Bartram
- Division of Clinical Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of Southampton, RSH Hospital, Brintons Terrace, Southampton SO14 0YG.
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Heath TJ. Initial work experiences of veterinarians who graduated from Australian universities in 2005. Aust Vet J 2008; 86:357-64. [PMID: 18782419 DOI: 10.1111/j.1751-0813.2008.00337.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the location, type, support from and effects of their first position for the veterinary graduates of 2005, and to make comparisons with graduates of 1950-2000. PROCEDURE Questionnaires were sent to veterinarians who had graduated from an Australian university in 2005, and data were analysed with SAS System 8 for Windows. RESULTS One-sixth of the graduates left for overseas, and 55% (Murdoch) to 85% (Melbourne) of the remainder found their first veterinary position in the state where they were trained. More were in small animal (48%) and less in mixed practice (48%) than in previous decades, and they spent more time (79%) with dogs and cats, and less with horses (9%), cattle (8%) and other production animals (1%). The median income of males working full-time was $43,000 and $39,000 for equivalent females. Most were satisfied with the help and support received from their boss and workplace; approximately 20% felt that support was inadequate, and many felt overworked and underpaid. The graduates with inadequate support were more likely to suffer stress and were less likely to have enjoyed their first year or to agree that they would become a veterinarian again. The levels of perceived support, and of stress, were similar to those reported by graduates of 2000, though more favourable than in the previous 2 decades. CONCLUSIONS Graduates of 2005 were less likely than their predecessors to start in mixed practice or to work with cattle and horses. Most felt poorly paid, but most, though not all, felt well supported in their first position.
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Affiliation(s)
- T J Heath
- surveyingtheprofessions, 11 Sixth Avenue, St Lucia, QLD 4067, Australia.
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Heath TJ. Number, distribution and concentration of Australian veterinarians in 2006, compared with 1981, 1991 and 2001. Aust Vet J 2008; 86:283-9. [PMID: 18616482 DOI: 10.1111/j.1751-0813.2008.00314.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the number, concentration and distribution of veterinarians working in Australia in 2006, and compare with data from 1981, 1991 and 2001. Procedure Data on each veterinarian who was registered, resident and apparently working in each Australian state and territory were obtained from relevant veterinary board lists, entered into an Excel spreadsheet and analysed with SAS System for Windows 8. Other data were obtained from the Official Australian Postcode Map, and the Australian Bureau of Statistics. RESULTS A total of 7510 veterinarians, of whom 46% were female, were working in Australia in 2006. The rate of increase (230/year) between 2001 and 2006 was greater than for the previous 20 years. The number per million people (360) was 73% higher than in 1981, and more than 30% higher than in the USA and UK. With the establishment of three new veterinary schools the number of graduates, and the total number of veterinarians, will increase further. By 2011 the number of veterinarians is likely to be three-fold greater, and the number per million people two-fold greater than in 1981. The number of veterinarians per million dogs and cats will increase at a greater rate if dog and cat numbers continue to fall. As more than 75% of Australian veterinary work involves dogs and cats this has serious implications for the profession. CONCLUSIONS Progressively increasing numbers of veterinarians will compete for a constant or diminishing resource--the dogs and cats of Australia. It seems likely that overt signs of oversupply will appear before sufficient numbers of veterinarians enter alternative forms of employment.
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MAXWELL JAL, COSTA ND, LAYMAN LL, ROBERTSON ID. Rural veterinary services in Western Australia: Part B. Rural practice. Aust Vet J 2008; 86:74-80. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1751-0813.2008.00264.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Wilson JL. Community and family: a personal perspective on the past and future of veterinary science. Aust Vet J 2008; 86:71-3. [PMID: 18304040 DOI: 10.1111/j.1751-0813.2008.00259.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J L Wilson
- Vienna Road Veterinary Surgery, 8/195 Vienna Road, Alexandra Hills QLD 4161, Australia.
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Heath TJ. Longitudinal study of veterinary students and veterinarians: effects of growing up on a farm with animals. Aust Vet J 2007; 85:296-9. [PMID: 17615044 DOI: 10.1111/j.1751-0813.2007.00171.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the career paths of veterinarians who had grown up on farms with animals with those of veterinarians from other backgrounds, during the first 15 years after they graduated. PROCEDURE Questionnaires were completed by veterinary students in their first and fifth year, and after 1, 5, 10 and 15 years after they graduated. The most recent questionnaires were returned by 134 of 137 graduates, 20% of whom had grown up, or lived for at least two years, on farms where animals were a primary source of income. This paper includes findings from that questionnaire but also contains comparisons with previous ones. RESULTS Fifteen years after they graduated, veterinarians who had grown up on farms with animals were more likely than those of other backgrounds to be living in centres with < 10,000 people (58% farm, 20% other), irrespective of the type of work they were doing. Although they were more likely to be doing no veterinary work (42% farm, 21% other), they were also more likely to be working in mixed practice (15% farm, 9% other) and with cattle and sheep generally (11% full time equivalent farm, 5% full time equivalent other). However, > 80% of those who had started their careers in mixed practice were no longer in mixed practice after 15 years. Veterinarians of farm origin who were in private practice were more likely to be sole or part owners (93% farm, 46% other) and less likely to be employees (7% farm, 54% other). CONCLUSIONS In this study, veterinarians who had grown up on farms with animals seemed slightly more likely than those from other backgrounds to continue working in mixed practice and to work with cattle or sheep, although the numbers were small and the differences not significant. Whatever their background, the majority who started their careers in mixed practice left over the next few years, and by 15 years only 15% remained.
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Affiliation(s)
- T J Heath
- Surveyingtheprofessions, 11 Sixth Avenue, St Lucia QLD 4067, Australia.
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Heath TJ. Longitudinal study of veterinary students and veterinarians: family and gender issues after 20 years. Aust Vet J 2007; 85:290-5. [PMID: 17615043 DOI: 10.1111/j.1751-0813.2007.00180.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine and compare some family issues and work experiences of males and females who graduated as veterinarians 15 years ago. PROCEDURE Questionnaires were completed by 134 of 137 veterinarians who graduated 15 years ago, and who had been surveyed in their first and final years as students, and 1, 5, 10 and 15 years after they graduated. Comparisons were made with official statistics, information from earlier surveys in this longitudinal study, and data from a previously published national study. RESULTS By 15 years after they graduated, 82% had been married or in a comparable long-term relationship, and 23% of these were to another veterinarian. Thirteen percent of those who had been married were now separated or divorced, and 50% of them had remarried, a similar proportion to official statistics for Australians of comparable age. Approximately 20% of both males and females were doing no veterinary work, but more males (68%) than females (37%) were doing veterinary work full time. Most who were doing veterinary work were in private practice, and of these, small animals represented 76% of the work of the males and 88% of the work of the females. Females in private practice were more likely to be employees, especially if working part time, but those working full time were just as likely as males to be practice owners. In general males earned more than females. CONCLUSION By 15 years after graduation, the percentages of males and females doing some veterinary work are similar, although males are more likely than females to be working full time. Females and males in full time private practice are equally likely to be practice owners, but female owners and female employees earn less than comparable males. Males and females have similar attitudes to having done the veterinary course.
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Affiliation(s)
- T J Heath
- Surveyingtheprofessions, 11 Sixth Avenue, St Lucia QLD 4067, Australia.
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