www.gvma.net Critter Fixers: Country Vets - GVMA members, Drs. Vernard Hodges and Terrence Ferguson - Georgia Veterinary Medical ...
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Spring 2020 A quarterly publication of the Georgia Veterinary Medical Association
See page 6
for details!
Critter Fixers: Country Vets
GVMA members, Drs. Vernard Hodges and Terrence Ferguson
www.gvma.net
Georgia Veterinary Medical Association
2 SPRING 2020 • GAVet
SPRING 2020 • GAVet 3
contents 6 Cover Profile:
Q&A with the Critter Fixers:
Country Vets
10 How Can Therapy Help?
13 Is There a Right Way to
Pay Your Doctors?
By: Dr. Duffy Jones
14 Why is Your Veterinary Clinic
Giving Up Pharma Sales?
By: Brian Conrad
6
16 Myth Busters: The Truth
About Aggression
By: Lynne Seibert
Drs. Vernard Hodges & Terrence Ferguson on the “set” of their new TV show.
18 Exploring Your Options: Practice
Ownership as a Young Veterinarian
By: Carly Watson Tobler
20 Legalities of Utilizing Drug Products
By: Heather Lindell Tally
16
24 Tips to Renew Your License
26 Get Your Financial Education
28 Certified Veterinary Assistant Program
30 Emerald Coast Veterinary Conference
Emerald Coast
Veterinary Conference
30
4 SPRING 2020 • GAVet
GVMA Calendar
March 20-22
PRACTICE MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE
12 CE HRS.
Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa
March 21
GASTROENTEROLOGY SEMINAR
(+ LEAP CE) 7 CE HRS.
Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa
March 22
ENDOCRINOLOGY SEMINAR
(+ LEAP CE) 7 CE HRS.
Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa
April 24-26 May 2
GA FOOD ANIMAL CONFERENCE SOFT TISSUE SURGERY
(+ LEAP CE) 21 CE HRS. (+ LEAP CE) 7 CE HRS.
Callaway Gardens Pine Mountain Unicoi State Park, Helen
SAVE THE DATE!
Sept. 25-27
VETSOUTH FALL CONFERENCE
The Hotel at Avalon, Alpharetta
2020
SPRING 2020 • GAVet 5
C OV E R S TO RY
Q & A with the
Critter Fixers: Country Vets
GVMA members, Where were you born and raised?
Drs. Vernard Hodges Dr. Ferguson: Talbotton, GA
Dr. Hodges: Fort Valley, a small, rural town in Peach County, GA
and Terrence Ferguson,
will star in an upcoming Why did you decide to go into veterinary medicine?
National Geographic Dr. Ferguson: When I was young, I had an injured dog that I nursed back to health. That
Wild series about incident lit a spark in me, and knew that was what I wanted to do with my life. I always
loved having pets, and I loved farm animals too. I was the FFA President at Central High
practicing veterinary School!
medicine in rural
Dr. Hodges: I’ve always had a love for animals, especially fish. Aquaculture is in my
Georgia. Drs. Hodges blood. I grew up raising koi with my dad. As a matter of fact, my undergraduate degree
is in fisheries biology. I had childhood dreams of being the black Jacques Cousteau,
and Ferguson own but I decided to go into veterinary medicine because it allowed me to treat a variety of
Critter Fixer Veterinary animals, big and small.
Hospitals in Byron
and Bonaire. How/why did you start your own practice?
Dr. Ferguson: Even though I always wanted to be a veterinarian, I also wanted to be a
business owner and be my own boss. Fortunately, I had a partner who shared my vision.
We took a leap of faith opening a small practice in Byron, GA without a lot of money
over 20 years ago, but it has paid off. Business has been good!
6 SPRING 2020 • GAVet
Dr. Hodges: Coming home from veterinary school at Tuskegee University to rural
Georgia, there were not a lot of job opportunities as a veterinarian. The big hospitals, like
Banfield, were not common then, and most of the jobs were in larger cities, like Atlanta.
I wanted to be home near my family, so I decided if I couldn’t find the job that I wanted, I
would just make one for myself.
What is a typical day for you?
Dr. Ferguson: I wake up at 3AM and go to the gym from 3:30 to 4:30. I go home and nap,
then get to work around 8:00. When I get in, I check on cases and get my surgeries done
in the morning in between seeing clients. After lunch, it’s pretty much seeing clients and
walk ins. I have to squeeze all my business errands into lunch time. After work, I transition
into a mechanic! I work in my garage building hot rods for 2-3 hours before bed.
Sometimes I trade my mechanic’s hat for a coach’s hat and spend my time after work “I knew it would
training and mentoring local athletes. I spend time with my family in evenings, shower,
go to bed and do it again! be a good
Dr. Hodges: A typical day starts with feeding all my animals – 3 dogs, a gecko and a platform for
bearded dragon. After everyone is taken care of, I come into the office and getting a
quick rundown from the staff on what needs to be done, whether it’s surgery, seeing client education
patients or going out on a farm call. My responsibilities could range anywhere from
performing surgery on a rabbit to speaking to schoolchildren about veterinary medicine and diversity.
to helping birth a calf.
It will be very
Why did you decide to get involved with a TV show? important
Dr. Ferguson: When we were approached
about the show, I wasn’t sure at first for kids to
whether I wanted to do it. Then I thought
about it, and I knew it would be a good
see African
platform for client education and diversity.
It will be very important for kids to see
American
African American veterinarians on TV.
veterinarians
Dr. Hodges: After spending 20 years as a
practice owner and accomplishing many
on TV.”
of my individual goals as a veterinarian, I Dr. Terrence Ferguson
thought long and hard about opening up
my world to an audience, and believe me,
that was a hard decision. However, T and
I have talked about the lack of diversity
in veterinary medicine over the last 20+
years – less than 3% of veterinarians are
African American – and we felt that with a larger platform, we could do our part by
showing kids that they could reach their dreams of becoming veterinarians.
How were you selected (if you were)
for a television show on National Geographic?
Dr. Ferguson: The short answer: Hodges! I call my partner the social media king.
Producers found him and saw what a fun-loving guy he was and reached out to him.
H: It’s actually a funny story. I was contacted on Instagram by Noah Korn, who is the
head of development at Hit + Run Creative, a production company based out of New
York City. He asked if I would like to be on television, and I did what most people
continued on page 8
SPRING 2020 • GAVet 7
C OV E R S TO RY
continued from page 7
How did the animals
handle the cameras?
Dr. Ferguson: The animals did very well. It was almost like
the cameras weren’t there.
Dr. Hodges: The animals were surprisingly tolerant of the
cameras. Sometimes the owners were a bit nervous to be
on film (and so was I)! I did have one incident where a horse
got a little spooked by the cameras and cameramen, and
I had to have the crew back off, but for the most part, the
animals were fine.
Did you do multiple takes?
Dr. Ferguson: Normally, we didn’t. However, on occasion we
had to do multiple takes because we had to make sure our
thought processes translated well. Also, sometimes we had
technical difficulties that required an additional take or two.
Dr. Hodges: Typically, you only have one shot when working
with animals, so we rarely did a second take. If we were
performing C-sections – which we did a lot on the show –
would do – I ignored him. However, his persistence paid
we couldn’t put a puppy back in the uterus!
off, and eventually I took his phone call. After our initial
conversations, we talked a little more via Skype so he could
Likewise, if we castrated a camel, which we also did on the
see more of my personality. When it looked like it might be
show, we certainly only had one shot at removing those
a real possibility, I called Terrence and said “hey bro, we may
humps! So I would tell the cameramen that they had better
have a TV show.” There was a minute of silence from his
be on their A games because we only had one shot.
end, but he was on board. The rest is history!
Did filming a show impact
What was it like to film a TV show? your work day?
Dr. Ferguson: It was a little nerve wracking initially because
Dr. Ferguson: Yes, it made our already long days
we didn’t know what to anticipate. Once I had a better
even longer!
understanding of the flow of filming, it was a lot easier. My
nerves were put at ease early in the process by the crew.
Dr. Hodges: Yes, it made them much, much longer.
Sometimes we had to wait for the camera crew to get in
Dr. Hodges: I didn’t know what to expect; there’s a lot more
place before we could begin work, so a case that would
to it than I thought! Getting mic’ed up the first time, I thought
normally take 35 minutes could take an hour and a half.
to myself “what have I done???” After a while, I forgot the
If you multiply that extra time by 10-12 cases a day, that
cameras were there. I think it was more eye-opening for the
makes for a really long day.
film crew. Some of them had never been behind the scenes
of a veterinary hospital and did not realize how intense the
life or death situations can be. Why should Georgia
veterinarians tune in?
The biggest surprise? Dr. Ferguson: Georgia veterinarians should watch the show
Dr. Ferguson: The biggest surprise was when they showed to see veterinarians from the same area who may face the
us some footage and we saw how well it was edited. We same issues they do.
looked pretty good on TV!
Dr. Hodges: Georgia veterinarians should tune in because I
Dr. Hodges: The biggest surprise was how much footage think it’s going to make the state look good. It will show how
was needed to make a show. Being followed and interviewed wonderful our great state is – the beautiful countryside and
for weeks and weeks was almost like having a second job! that famous Southern hospitality!
8 SPRING 2020 • GAVet
we can help the husbandry and productivity and increase
What is your biggest the farm’s revenue, this will lead to an increase in the salary
challenge as a country vet? of the mixed animal veterinarian. Increased wages will
Dr. Ferguson: I think the biggest challenge is treating hopefully lead to more students entering the veterinary
various animals of all species. In addition to pets, we see field so recent graduates can earn a good wage, repay their
horses, pigs, cows, goats and more! student loans and take care of their families. I think treating
a mixture of animals keeps the mind sharp and gives a
Dr. Hodges: In rural Georgia, we don’t always have the variety to the day.
specialists to refer patients to; the closest specialists
are 2 to 2.5 hours away and clients can’t always travel Any memorable stories that
that far. We’re also judged for our Southern drawls, but
I’m very proud of my accent!
you would like to share with
GVMA members?
What is your favorite part Dr. Ferguson: I thought I had seen it all, but while we were
of your job? in Los Angeles on a press tour for the show, reporters gave
Dr. Ferguson: It is so rewarding treating sick or injured us a porcupine to work with! I had never even seen one in
animals and getting them back to health. Seeing the healthy person. Where do you put the stethoscope???
animals and the relieved owners is absolutely the favorite
part of my job. Dr. Hodges: I remember one of the first times I had to pull
a calf without the assistance of my professors when I was
Dr. Hodges: I love not knowing what will meet me at the fresh out of veterinary school, over 20 years ago. This calf
door when I walk in in the morning. It could be a bearded was really a difficult case, especially for a new veterinarian.
dragon that is egg bound and needs surgery or a horse that I remember vividly having a tough time, and since Peach
has colic. The beautiful thing about being a veterinarian County is such a small area and I was back home, it seemed
is you can be an obstetrician, a dentist, an internist and a the whole town had gathered to watch me pull this calf. It
cardiologist all within the same hour. felt like a sporting event! I thought to myself “Lord, I have to
get this calf out alive and not look like a fool doing it!” After
a lot of hard work and sweat, and knowing that all the local
What would you say to those farmers were wondering if this young fella knew what he
interested in going into mixed was doing, I delivered a live calf. I’ve never been as excited to
animal medicine? deliver a calf, but I’ll never forget it!
Dr. Ferguson: I would encourage veterinarians that want Any additional comments?
to practice mixed animal medicine to pursue their dreams,
Dr. Ferguson: I’ve been a supporter of GVMA, and I
but also to make sure the location in which they want to
appreciate all the lobbying efforts done on behalf of the
practice will support a mixed animal practice.
veterinary community. Your work ensures that necessary
changes in our profession are made.
Dr. Hodges: The hours are long and the challenges are
great, but it’s very rewarding and you get to put all your
Dr. Hodges: Veterinary medicine has been such an amazing
veterinary skills to practice.
career field for me, and it has such a huge impact on my life.
The profession took a poor, academically struggling kid and
What do to you think needs to provided me with structure and the chance to come to work
happen for mixed animal medicine every day and do a job that I love.
to succeed in the future?
CRITTER FIXERS:
Dr. Ferguson: Veterinarians and large animal owners must
work together closely to understand that both parties have
COUNTRY VETS
an interest in keeping the animals healthy, but the animals PREMIERES:
must be cared for regularly. SATURDAY, MARCH 7
NATIONAL
Dr. Hodges: We need to educate farmers and ranchers on
GEOGRAPHIC
the importance of veterinary care for their livestock and
the value of the veterinarian to their overall bottom line. If
WILD
SPRING 2020 • GAVet 9
WELLNESS
How Can Therapy Help?
The GVMA has a Member Assistance Program, free
for members, which includes mental health resources.
Visit www.gvma.net/veterinary-wellness for access.
If you decide to
seek support from
a therapist you
may have some
questions. That’s
perfectly normal.
Working with a
therapist can help
you deal with some
of the challenges
you may be facing.
What is therapy? Personality. Success in therapy depends on creating an open,
honest dialogue with your therapist. It’s often easier to open
Psychotherapy, more commonly referred to as therapy, is
up when you “click” with your therapist’s personality and
an open, nonjudgmental space to work through problems or
style. It’s okay to interview a few prospective therapists on the
challenges. In therapy, you may learn new coping skills, ways
phone or have a couple of sessions before finding the right fit.
to deal with your feelings, and strategies for managing stress.
You can also explore thoughts that you might not say out loud
Type of therapy. There are different approaches, or theories,
to a friend or family member.
of psychotherapy that will influence how your sessions play
out. Some forms of therapy involve more talking, while others
What should I consider if I’m involve more “homework” or exercises to practice after your
looking for a therapist? session. Some therapists subscribe to a particular theory,
while others may blend elements from multiple approaches.
Experience with your issue. If you are struggling with Learn about the different forms of psychotherapy from the
depression, anxiety, burnout and/or compassion fatigue it can American Psychological Association (APA) (www.apa.org/
be helpful to know that your therapist has experience working topics/therapy/psychotherapy-approaches.aspx) and National
with your specific challenges. Ask about their experience Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) at (www.nimh.nih.gov/
working with people in the healthcare and how they can help health/topics/psychotherapies/index.shtml)
you overcome issues found in the veterinary profession.
10 SPRING 2020 • GAVetHow do I find a therapist? member or law enforcement
in order to keep everyone safe.
• Call your insurance company to find out which therapy Learn more about privacy rules
providers are covered by your insurance plan. Many and protections as they relate
insurance websites have a locator function to help find to mental health through the
support near you. Department of Health and
• Call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Human Services (www.hhs.
Administration (SAMHSA) Treatment Referral gov/hipaa/for-professionals/
Helpline at 1.800.662.HELP (4357) or search for a special-topics/mental-health/
local treatment center using their locator tool. index.html).
• If you are a student, you may have access to free services
through your on-campus counseling center. Many of
these resources do not require insurance. Talking About Timelines
• You can also find support from other local resources, such Some people are concerned that starting therapy means
as a community center or faith-based organization. entering into a lifelong contract. That isn’t usually the case.
• Contact the GVMA’s Employee Assistance Program You may be able to work with a therapist for a defined amount
which is free for GVMA members. The EAP staff at is of time to help you find ways to heal from the experience.
available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, ready to assist
you. Everything you say is confidential. Therapeutic treatments are designed to give you to tools to
structure your life and interact with your environment in a
A Safe, Confidential Space healthy way that works for you. You can, and should, talk about
timelines with your therapist. A flexible timeline can help you
Generally, what you say to your therapist will remain private. set goals for recovery and make it easier to track your progress.
Therapists know that in order to be comfortable sharing very
personal information, you need trust that anything you share When you’re ready to leave therapy, remember that the door
will stay between the two of you. There are a few exceptions doesn’t have to remain closed. You can always schedule a
to this rule to keep you and others safe. For instance, if a check-in appointment at a later time or resume therapy if
therapist believes that a patient has made a credible threat to you need it.
hurt themselves or others, the therapist may notify a family
continued on page 12
SPRING 2020 • GAVet 11continued from page 11
Changing Therapists The GVMA Employee
You may decide at a certain point that your relationship with your therapist isn’t Assistance Program
working out. Maybe you aren’t seeing the progress you had hoped, or maybe you feel provides support for
that you just don’t “click.” For the sake of your own health and progress, do not abruptly issues including:
stop attending sessions. Consider the following tips to help you through process of
• Family conflict
transitioning to new support.
• Depression and anxiety
• Relationship issues
First, write out your concerns. Then set them aside for a little while. Review this list
• Work-related issues
later when you’ve had some time to think about it. It can be helpful to bring this list into
• Grief and loss
a session with your current therapist to guide a conversation about your concerns.
• Alcohol or drug use
• Stress
Communicate with your therapist. Ask to reserve time at the end of the
• Legal and financial issues
appointment to discuss your concerns. It can seem intimidating to tell a therapist you
wish to leave. Remember that they are professionals. Most therapists will be able to
The Resilience & Well-Being
give you a referral for another professional that might be better suited for your
Committee has compiled
particular situation.
resources to help veterinarians
& their staff including free
Get a second opinion. If you’re not sure that this current treatment is working out for
Question-Persuade-Refer Suicide
you, you can seek the opinion of another professional. They may confirm your concerns
Training (QPR) training. Go
or they could reaffirm that you are on the right track.
to www.gvma.net/veterinary-
wellness to learn more.
Be prepared to retell your story. A new therapist won’t know your personal history.
You may have to retell parts of your life that you haven’t addressed explicitly in a while.
You are entitled to ask for a copy of your records to share with your new therapist, but
it’s likely that they will want to do their own assessment.
12 SPRING 2020 • GAVetP R AC T I C E M A N AG E M E N T
Is There a Right Way to
Pay Your Doctors?
By: Dr. Duffy Jones, DVM
Owner of Peachtree Hills Animal Hospital,
Co-founder, dvmSuccess
The short answer is no! There are many ways that doctors can be
compensated and it should be related to your practice culture.
However, the way in which you choose their salary, benefits,
and taxes should not exceed more than 20% of their gross
production. If that is occurring, then you are overpaying your
doctors which will in turn lower the value of your hospital
should you want to sell. Another good metric by which
to evaluate your doctors and their compensation is their
overall production. A full-time veterinarian should produce
around $780,000 per year.
This is GVMA member content. Access this article and other member only content by
becoming a member today!
GVMA Members Continue
reading here
SPRING 2020 • GAVet 13P R AC T I C E M A N AG E M E N T Why is Your Veterinary Clinic Giving Up Pharma Sales? By: Brian Conrad, CVPM On the lecture circuit, I hear many veterinary clinic owners and managers complain about how the internet and big-box stores are taking over their prescription business and cutting into their profits. But there’s a little irony here, as a lot of the same practice owners and managers who cry about the prescription marketplace are buying their eye glasses at national discount outlets, their groceries at Sam’s Club and Costco, and playing veterinary distributors against each other for the best deals for products and supplies to stock their clinics. GVMA member content, access this article by becoming a GVMA member today! GVMA Members Continue Reading HERE 14 SPRING 2020 • GAVet
“What worked
for us in the
1990s and early
2000s isn’t
going to cut it in
today’s market.
•
The good news
is, there’s still
>
plenty we can
do to adapt
and stay
successful in our
pharmacies.”
Brian Conrad, CVPM, has been practice manager for Meadow Hills Veterinary
Center in Kennewick, Wash., since 1999. He is a past president of the
Veterinary Hospital Management Association. Brian will be speaking at the
GVMA’s Practice Management Conference & Exhibit (July 24-26th) at
Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa.
Article originally posted on Aug. 2nd, 2019 at www.DVM360.com
SPRING 2020 • GAVet 15B E H AV I O R
Myth Busters –
The Truth About Aggression
By: Lynne Seibert DVM, MS, PhD, Dipl ACVB
GVMA Types of aggression
member • Arousal-related
• Conflict-related (mixed motivation)
content, come • Dominance (dominance-related, offensive,
a member status-related)
• Fear-induced (defensive)
HERE! • Idiopathic
• Irritable
• Learned (instrumental)
• Maternal
• Medical (pathologic)
• Pain-induced
• Play
• Possessive (resource guarding, food-protective)
• Predatory
• Protective (owner-protective)
• Redirected
GVMA Members • Territorial (defend exclusive areas from intrusion)
Continue Reading HERE Influences on aggressive behavior
• Genetic factors
• Environmental factors
• Motivational factors
• Hormonal control (natural seasonal variation in
hormone levels)
• Social context: among mammals with highly organized
social structures, variation in social context often
overrides hormonal effects on aggression
• Neurochemical control
• Prior experience
• Characteristics of opponent
History taking: crucial information about
aggressive episodes
• Victims
• Contexts
• Postural signals
Prognosis for canine aggression problems
influenced by:
• Predictability
• Size of dog
• Expectations of clients
• Owner compliance in behavior modification program
• Individuals at risk
• Duration of problem
16 SPRING 2020 • GAVetr t
emotion assoc
Simmons & Associates PRACTICE OWNERS…now is the time to sell!
Whether you’re pondering an associate sale,
Southeast, Inc. open market listing, or corporate sale, Simmons
will help! The current practice sales market is
Doyle Watson, DVM dynamic with buyers, and commercial financing
(800) 333-1984 southeast@simmonsinc.com is readily available. Contact Dr. Doyle Watson
at Simmons & Associates Southeast today, for
Please visit www.Simmonsinc.com to submit a a complimentary, non-obligatory consultation.
confidentiality agreement to learn more about each The dialogue will be informative and time well
of the Simmons Southeast listings below: spent. As the original pioneer of veterinary
practice brokerage, we have been at this since
GEORGIA 1977, so we have seen a lot. Let our knowledge,
SOUTH CENTRAL: $959K+ gross, up 14% in 2018, 1.5 dr prx.
experience, and common-sense business
Nice facility & equipment. (GA14F)
judgment work for you.
HINESVILLE : Solo dr, SA prx. $930K+ Gross. $196K personal
income to new owner. (GA34H) Phone: 800-333-1984
Make sure you plan to stop by our booth at the upcoming Email: southeast@simmonsinc.com
57th Annual UGA Conference and Alumni Reunion,
March 12-14, 2020 and say Hi to Sheila Collins! Website: www.simmonsinc.com
SPRING 2020 • GAVet 17P R AC T I C E M A N AG E M E N T
Exploring Your Options:
Practice Ownership as
a Young Veterinarian
Carly Watson Tobler, Executive
By: Carly Watson Tobler, Simmons & Associates Southeast, Inc. Director,
Simmons&AssociatesSoutheast,
Inc.
We constantly hear myths and rumors that young veterinarians today do not want to
be practice owners. The reality is that today’s prospective owners’ visions of practice
ownership are different than that of prior generations. Young shoppers are seeking
schedule freedom that multi-doctor practices offer, attractive facilities in growing urban/
suburban communities, and modern equipment. The challenge is that corporate buyers
are also seeking the same attributes, and consequently paying well above fair market “In considering
prices that private buyers can afford and financing will allow.
Additionally, future owners are misled on the idea that a multi-doctor practice is easier
the various
to manage and allows schedule flexibility for the owner. While this is true, most owners
of multi-doctor practices have worked many days and long hours in creating their now
options,
enjoyed freedom. Most do not start with the current number of employees and doctors.
They have worked years to establish client relationships, build practice culture, and prospective
manage bookings.
owners must
Several options for an aspiring practice owner:
1 Do nothing (never obtain the financial reward of ownership)
come to terms
2 Start-up (build a practice from scratch – competition and costs can add up quickly) with the hard
3 Buy-in (buy a percentage of a practice - lack full ownership control and benefits)
4 Buy established practice (step outside your comfort zone and purchase a practice
work and
that, with hard work, will return personal and financial satisfaction)
demands that
In considering the various
options, prospective come along
owners must come to terms
with the hard work and with practice
demands that come along
with practice ownership. ownership.”
This will require a new
mindset in purchasing
goals. Profitable hospitals
in less populated areas
are available for sale and
will continue to be in the
foreseeable future. One
may need to relocate
to a less desirable area
or endure a longer commute. The hospital may need a little TLC to meet your ideal
standards, but that’s where the joy comes in!
18 SPRING 2020 • GAVetActual Scenarios:
SCENARIO 1 SCENARIO 2
Gross Revenues $866K with growth of 8-12% each year $601K with 2 years of decline due to
owner’s health, 13% growth year of listing
Projected Income to $224K $140K
New Owner
Hours M/Tu/Th/F 8-5:30, W 9-Noon M/Tu/Th/F 8-5, Sa 8-11;
closed every other F & Sa
Services Primarily wellness, vaccines, and Primarily wellness and vaccines; No
spays/neuters; No boarding/grooming or boarding/grooming or other non-doctor;
other non-doctor; No surgeries requiring No surgeries in the last year due to owner’s
overnight stays health
Facility Size & Specs Dated with no décor & aesthetics 2,632SF Well-designed 3,270SF facility including
Hospital + 294SF separate apartment on large kennel on 3.3 acres; attractive curb
1.08 acres appeal; ample room for growth
Location Outside a small, less desirable town On a major highway in growing attractive
approximately 45 minutes from a large community approximately 25 minutes from
attractive coastal city a lake suburb and 45 minutes from a large
desirable city
List Price $775K Practice $370K Practice
$190K Real Estate $460K Real Estate
Challenge/Buyer The town/community; quality of medicine/ Dated modern equipment; risk of highway
Complaints services offered (or not offered); dated expansion to 4 lanes - threat of eminent
equipment; facility condition domain and facility move 3-5 years after
purchase; questionable that all 3+ acres is
buildable
Other Comments/ High profitability and significant ROI; Growth potential due to area growth
Summary limited/easy doctor schedule, small self- & current limited schedule; risky with
sufficient staff, easy to manage; close possibility of facility move, but new
enough to a desirable city for traffic-less owner will have ample time to build cash
commute flow and properly prepare
To get you visualizing the many possibilities of option 3 Do you take the potential risk of eminent domain with
#4, the chart above includes two broad scenarios that a Scenario 2 considering the facility backbone, area
prospective buyer may face when shopping around. These growth, and location are all present?
are “the diamond in the rough” investment opportunities that
were challenging sales. They both are solo doctor practices If you’re aspiring to be an owner, ponder these real life
in stand-alone facilities on spacious lots, have solid support scenarios and discuss with others to clearly process the
staff with long-term commitment to the hospital, and have many options available. Are you willing to endure less
nearby emergency hospitals to refer. Each were minimally comforts to obtain the financial reward you’re seeking? As
equipped including in-house lab machines and x-ray with the saying goes, a successful journey begins with a single
automatic processor. Think outside the box in pondering step. Make your move now by exploring options currently
these questions in relation to each scenario. available to you.
1 How can you make these opportunities work for you The Summer 2020 GAVet issue will include Part 2 to this
and your family? What would you do? article dissecting the risk taking, entrepreneurial point of
2 With Scenario 1, would you sacrifice your ideal view on each of these scenarios.
high-quality full-service practice to have hassle-free
ownership and make a lot of money? Or would you
change the practice dynamics into your own by using
the profits to invest in better equipment and updated
facility? Considering the current profit and limited
schedule and services, is an hour commute from your
metropolitan home worth the ROI this practice offers?
SPRING 2020 • GAVet 19P H A R M AC Y
Legalities of Utilizing Drug Products:
Focus on Prescriptions, Packaging, Labeling,
Online Pharmacies, and Counterfeit Drugs
By: Heather Lindell Tally, PharmD, DICVP, FSVHP
University of Georgia Veterinary Teaching Hospital — Heather Lindell Tally,
PharmD, DICVP, FSVHP
Athens, Georgia
Content reprinted with permission. Copyright © 2019 by VPIN Dr. Heather Lindell is a
PharmD at the University
Of Georgia College Of
REQUIREMENTS OF PRESCRIPTIONS Veterinary Medicine. She
also keeps current on her
In order to issue a prescription for an animal, you must
human medicine by working
be a licensed veterinarian practicing within the scope part-time at Northside
of your practice, have a valid veterinarian-client-patient Hospital Forsyth.
relationship, and the prescription must be for a legitimate
medical use.
- GVMA Member Only Content, become a member here!
GVMA Members
Continue Reading HERE
-
-
20 SPRING 2020 • GAVet-
-
SPRING 2020 • GAVet 21New Date: Sept. 18-20! 22 SPRING 2020 • GAVet
SPRING 2020 • GAVet 23
A DVO C AC Y
Tips To Renew Your License
Each veterinarian licensed to practice in the State of Georgia must obtain 30 hours of
State Board approved continuing education every two years for license renewal. All
veterinarians must renew their license through the Professional Licensing Board at the
Georgia Secretary of State’s Office by December 31, 2020.
All currently licensed GA veterinarians will receive an email indicating that it is time to renew.
Please check your spam/junk email box in case your renewal email gets sent there.
GVMA Member Only
Content: Become a Member
Today!
GVMA Members,
continue reading
HERE
-
For complete listing of GVMA CE and LEAP courses go to "Meetings" at www. GVMA.net.
24 SPRING 2020 • GAVetFREE
CREDIT CARD TERMINAL &
AMAZON GIFT CARD
WHEN YOU OPEN
A NEW ACCOUNT!
Piedmont Payment
Advisors, LLC
Veterinary Practice Specialists
Credit Card and Electronic Payment Processing
Serving the GVMA since 2009
Piedmont Payment Advisors is an independent agent company with
the ability to board credit card processing clients to multiple payment
platforms (WorldPay, First Data, TSYS) as well as provide access to all
major internet gateways.
PEACE OF MIND
For the security of your customers personal credit card information
we provide some of the most secure credit card terminals, mobile
payment applications, and Virtual Payment products in the industry.
COMMITTED TO SERVICE
As the company owner and founder, I ask that clients contact me
in the event of any questions or problems. In most cases I can take
care of the issue without you or your staff contacting the processor.
References are available upon request.
www.piedmontpaymentadvisors.com
678.560.4924
SPRING 2020 • GAVet 25MEMBERSHIP
Member Assistance Program
Get Your Financial Education
If you have questions about a financial issue, speaking Features Available
with a financial expert can help. Your member assistance • Free consultation with a financial counselor for you or
your family members.
program (MAP) provides you with confidential, free
consultations with financial experts on everything • No appointment needed during regular business hours
Monday through Friday. Saturday appointments
from credit and debt, to purchasing a home, or saving for available. Simple questions answered immediately.
retirement. Experts are available without an appointment
• Average length of consultation 60-90 minutes, and no
during regular work hours, and by appointment – even limit to the number of conversations.
on Saturdays. We also offer a full selection of financial • Summary of goals and action steps are mailed to the
articles, tip sheets, financial calculators, and other tools client along with additional educational materials.
to help you get the answers you need. Call for: Retirement Planning, Debt Consolidation/Credit
Counseling, Budgeting, Bankruptcy, Loan Issues, Major
Life Events, College Planning, Understanding Credit Report,
New Home Purchase
WORK-LIFE/MAP ASSISTANCE: 800-633-3353
WEBSITE: www.mygroup.com > My Portal Login > Work-Life
USERNAME: gvma • PASSWORD: guest
26 SPRING 2020 • GAVetNew Date: July
24-26th!
SPRING 2020 • GAVet 27MEMBERSHIP
Certified Veterinary
The Certifi
ed Veterin
Assistant ary
Program e
continuing ncourage
s
Assistant Program
education
veterinary for
medical p
enabling th ersonnel,
em to bec
more info ome
rmed, skil
trusted m led, and
CVA Program Features: veterinary
embers of
the
medical te
This progr am.
• Education Manual – A comprehensive training manual is available for am is offe
individuals or an entire practice. The manual, consisting of educational discount to red as a
GVMA Me
text, exercises, and other learning experiences arranged in workbook and their mbers
style, includes 10 courses dealing with a wide variety of skills and
staff.
competencies required for certification.
• Skills Development – A CVA must demonstrate competency in dozens
of foundational skills.
• Work Experience – On-the-job training is an important element in “I have had all my
this educational model. The CVA is required to accumulate 500 hours
of practical, supervised work experience.
assistant staff go through
• Testing – An comprehensive certification exam insures that CVAs the certification process.
possess a sound knowledge base.
All of the staff loved it
and it made them feel
CVA Program Benefits:
accomplished when the
Benefits to Veterinary Hospitals
• Motivate current personnel to pursue veterinary medicine as a got the certificate after
career, resulting in less turnover and investment in replacement and passing the test.”
re-training efforts.
• The CVA as part of your medical team demonstrates your practice’s
commitment to training and education.
• Use the comprehensive training manual as the foundation for your staff
training program. “I have read through the
• The CVA program offers real-time progress tracking and results.
manual and there is a
Benefits to the CVA Applicant lot of very good, basic
• Gain a sound knowledge base to be a more effective and valuable
member of any veterinary medical team. information there. I think
• Hands-on experiences to demonstrate competency in dozens of
foundational skills.
it’s very important to
• Work experience under the supervising DVM or RVT to utilize the properly educate staff.
materials being learned.
• Solid foundation to explore further career opportunities in the Two of my staff are also
veterinary medical field.
enrolled in school to
become RVTs, but this is a
simple, easy way for them
to get basic certification.”
Dr. Lois Lassiter, Owner,
Budget Vet LLC
28 SPRING 2020 • GAVetIn order to receive CVA certification, certain standard requirements
must be met. These include:
“With veterinarians
• 90 days of work experience under the supervision of a DVM or RVT and RVTs in very high
• Mastering all required material for level of desired certification, as well as
previous levels. demand and most not
• Gaining and demonstrating the hands-on skills listed on the Skills
Validation Checklist moving out into rural
• Exam Application and Skills Validation Checklist completed and approved areas… These programs
by the DVM or RVT
• Successful completion of the certification examination (70%) allow us to be able to
credential our staff for
what we already know
Pricing they are capable of but
CVA – LEVEL I also set a bar that our
Hard-copy Training Manual
$169 – GVMA hospital members clients can understand
$249 – GVMA individual members
that the staff we have
Hard-copy Certification Exam
$139 – GVMA hospital members are properly trained
$199 – GVMA individual members
CVA Level 1 is also available online through ACT. For more info about the
and educated.”
online course, visit stafftraining.4act.com/gvma. Dr. Clint Hall, Owner,
Wolfe Animal Hospital
Go to www.gvma.net to register & learn more about Level’s 2 & 3.
Your Practice is your Legacy.
FREE Practice Appraisal in just 2 weeks! Ready to sell to Corporate, an Individual or your Associate?
Contact Practice Sales Advisors today for your complimentary consultation. Rebecca Robinson Davis,
CBI, or Dr. Brennan McGoldrick | 912.268.2701 | Hello@practicesalesadvisors.com
GEORGIA-Practice Sales Advisors • 912-268-2701 SOUTH CAROLINA-Practice Sales Advisors • 912-268-2701
Hello@Practicesalesadvisors.com Hello@Practicesalesadvisors.com
NEW! Castleberry Veterinary Hospital - 4 Exam Rooms, Turn-Key NEW! South of Charlotte - Grossing Approximately $1Million,
Ready! Real Estate also Offered.
NEW!SouthofAtlanta-GrossingApproximately$1Million,Seeking NEW! GREENVILLE - Grossing Approximately $1Million,
Corporate Buyer. Prime Location.
NEW!EastofAtlanta-CharmingFacility,LoyalClienteleEstablished. NEW! COLUMBIA Area - Solo Doctor Practice, 1.3 Acres of
Property, Charming Facility.
SOLD! Southeast Georgia - Grossing $2.5M
NORTH CAROLINA-Practice Sales Advisors • 912-268-2701
FLORIDA-Practice Sales Advisors • 912-268-2701
Hello@Practicesalesadvisors.com
Hello@Practicesalesadvisors.com
SOLD! LUMBERTON Area - AHAA Accredited, Grossing $1.5M.
NEW! Central Florida Area - Small Animal Exclusive, Grossing
$700K and Growing!
TENNESSEE-Practice Sales Advisors • 912-268-2701
UNDER CONTRACT! North Miami Siegel - TLC Animal Clinic- Hello@Practicesalesadvisors.com
Grossing $750K, Well Established.
KNOXVILLE Are - Spacious Facility, Owner Willing to Stay On.
SOLD! EASTERN TN - Grossing $1.4M
SPRING 2020 • GAVet 29Save The Date:
New Date: August 17-21st • Miramar Beach, FL • 60+ HOURS OF
CE
The Emerald Coast Veterinary Conference is a CE event unlike
any other. White sand beaches and a world-class golf & beach
resort create an environment that attracts the best speakers.
Outstanding CE in an unrivaled setting has contributed to ECVC’s
amazing growth and popularity. Join us and see why so many
attendees return year after year.
Breakfast and refreshment breaks are provided for CE attendees.
30 SPRING 2020 • GAVetEmerald Coast
Veterinary Conference
A world-class beach resort makes
everything better including
a veterinary conference.
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
Featured 2020 Speakers
Julia Albright Heather Hopkinson Peter Noël Laura Smallwood
MA, DVM, DACVB RVT, VTS-EVN, CCRP DVM, DACVR DVM, DACVIM (SAIM), RYT-200
Associate Professor Registered Veterinary Technician Veterinary Radiologist Medical Director
The University of Tennessee North Carolina State University ParallaxVET Saint Francis Veterinary Specialists
Lindsey Boone Kendon Kuo Elizabeth Rozanski Saralyn Smith-Carr
DVM, PhD, DACVS-LA DVM, MS, DACVECC DVM, DACVIM, DACVECC BS, DVM, MS, PhD
Assistant Clinical Professor Assistant Clinical Professor Associate Professor Associate Professor
Auburn University Auburn University Tufts University AuburnUniversityCollegeofVeterinary
Medicine
Kristy Broaddus Brad Matz Patty Scharko
DVM, MS, DACVS DVM, MS, DACVS-SA, ACVS Fellow, DVM, MPH, DACVPM Andrew Specht
Owner and Small Animal Surgeon Surgical Oncology Extension/ Field Veterinarian DVM, DACVIM
Veterinary Services of Hanover Assistant Clinical Professor Clemson University ClinicalAssociateProfessorandService
Auburn University Chief
Jon M. Fletcher William Schultz University of Florida
DVM, DACVIM Lara Maxwell DVM
Associate Professor DVM, PhD, DACVCP Owner & Veterinarian Mel Stephens
Louisiana State University Professor Schultz Veterinary Clinic DVM
Oklahoma State University Emergency Coordinator
Barden Greenfield Beth Scott USDA APHIS Veterinary Services
DVM, DAVDC Kirk Miller CPA
Assistant Clinical Professor DVM, DABVP Director of Business Advisory and Heather Lindell Tally
Auburn University Shelter Veterinarian Veterinary Services Groups PharmD, BS, RPh, FSVHP, DICVP
Oregon State University KatzSapper&MillerBusinessServices Assistant Pharmacy Manager &
Kendal E. Harr Pharmacist
DVM, MS, DACVP Darryl Millis University of Georgia
Owner and Pathologist DVM, MS, DACVS, CCRP, DACVSMR
URIKA, LLC Professor
The University of Tennessee
continued from page 32
SPRING 2020 • GAVet 31CE
2020 Special Events
Wednesday, June 3 - ECVC Kickoff Reception
Baytowne Conference Center
Exhibit Hall Welcome Reception and Family Fun Night (FREE to attend!) All continuing education
This is a great
opportunity to bring
sessions will be held in
the family to the Exhibit the Baytowne Conference
Hall and have some fun Center adjacent the Grand
while you get your first Sandestin Hotel.
look at our Exhibit Hall
and all the wonderful
vendors we have for Anesthesiology
2020. Family friendly
games, photo booth
Backyard Poultry
and balloon art are just Cardiology
some of the fun things
we will have in store. Dermatology
This event is sponsored by the ECVC Industry Council. Feline Medicine
Gastroenterology
Friday, June 5 - Golf Outing
Hematology/Hemostatis
1:30 pm @ Baytowne Golf Course
Join your colleagues Infectious Disease
and save on greens
fees on Friday
Internal Medicine
afternoon while you LEAP
play 18 holes on
Baytowne Golf Course, Neurology
one of the Southeast’s
finest greens. Be sure
Nutrition
to thank the sponsors Oncology
at each hole – golfers
will save more than Ophthalmology
$100 off of ticket
price, thanks to these Parasitology
companies!
Poultry
Cost: $60 per person.
Practice Management
Rehab/Pain Management
Respiratory Pulmonology
Soft Tissue Surgery
USDA Accreditation
Veterinary Technician
Wellness
Wound Management
32 SPRING 2020 • GAVetLocation
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy W
Miramar Beach, FL 32550
(850) 267-8000
All education sessions will be held in the
Baytowne Conference Center adjacent the
Grand Sandestin Hotel.
Hotel Reservations • (800) 320-8115
Discounted Rates through April 26, 2020.
An additional discount of 4% is available for
reservations of seven nights or more.
2020 Pricing & Discounts
GREATEST VALUE
Students Techs/Staff/ Full Registration 2 Day Registration
Managers
$100 $315 $495 $395
DVM Student: $100 FULL REGISTRATION 2 Day DVM
RVT Student: $100 Technician/Staff: $315 (Sat.-Sun. (4 Days)
only) REGISTRATION
(Limited to space available) VMA Member: $495 VMA Member: $395
Upgraded Full Vet Non-Member: $645 Non-Member: $445
Tech/Staff: $495
Office Manager*: $25
(*Limited to exhibit hall only) A printable registration form is available at
www.emeraldcoastvc.com. Don’t wait! Register today!
SPRING 2020 • GAVet 3334 SPRING 2020 • GAVet
Georgia Veterinary Medical Association 2200 Century Parkway, Suite 725 Atlanta, GA 30345
You can also read
