Over 60 volunteer leaders—including representatives from all six specialties, committee and task force chairs, industry partners, board members, and staff—gathered for the third annual ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ Volunteer Leadership Convening. The event was led by Sarah Gillings, DVM, DºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ (Oncology), Chair of the ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ Board of Regents; Shannon Carter, EdD, CAE, ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ Chief Executive Officer; and Tracy Hill, DVM, PhD, DºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ (SAIM), Board Member-at-Large.
The purpose of the Convening was to explore emerging trends in veterinary specialty medicine and provide input that will shape the ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿â€™s long-term strategy.
Top Trends Impacting Specialty Medicine
Based on member surveys, focus groups, and participant discussion, the following trends emerged as the most critical for ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ to address:
- Shifts in Veterinary Training Models – Distributed education and alternative pathways are changing how veterinarians prepare for specialty practice, and what role specialists play in that training.
- Role Clarity and Competition – Mid-level providers and generalists delivering advanced care are blurring professional boundaries.
- Changing Economic and Business Models – Consolidation, spectrum of care, private equity and shifting workforce expectations are reshaping specialty practice dynamics.
- Veterinary Technician Shortage: A chronic shortage is straining practices and affecting care delivery.
Participants emphasized that these trends are deeply interconnected and must be addressed holistically, and many may be largely outside the scope of ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿â€™s direct sphere of influence.
Looking Ahead
Leaders agreed that ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ must clearly articulate its core purpose and the unique contributions of veterinary specialists. This shared vision will guide future strategy and ensure ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ remains responsive to members and positioned for long-term success.
Ongoing engagement with members and stakeholders will continue as this strategic planning work progresses.
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