Congratulations–you are a veterinary practice owner. Whether you are just starting out or you’ve been an owner for several years, there comes a time when books, conferences, continuing education courses, Facebook groups or consultants aren’t what you need- you want to connect on a deeper level with other practice owners just like yourself. That’s when you might want to consider Veterinary Management Groups (VMG). So what makes VMG so different? 1) groups are specifically kept small, 2) regular meetings and 3) members’ commitment.
Why a small group?
There are several reasons but VMG groups have some common founding structure ( ie. mixed animal practices, mobile practice owners) but are limited to a relatively small size ( typically 15-20 members). This allows the members to form a level of deep trust with each other while still allowing the group to work successfully together towards common objectives- namely Successful Veterinary Practices.
Benefits to a facilitated In-Person Meeting
Yes, since the beginning of the pandemic, there has been a surge of virtual opportunities – many have come to understand again the value of “in-person”. While it does mean more time commitment- it also allows individuals to set aside dedicated time to focus on a very specific aspect of their lives- the ownership of their practice. When a meeting has a Facilitator- it also ensures that agendas and meeting time is productive, discussion and brainstorming are engaging and energizing and all members contribute.
Invested Members
VMG requires a commitment. Similar to practice ownership- VMG members are committed to the group. Commitment results in continual learning and improvement because owning a business is about managing change too. Members know that investing their time and effort through meetings and group participation –they and their practices will reap the reward of their efforts.
Are you interested in learning more about joining VMG?
If you own a veterinary hospital and you like our approach to collaboration and development, we would love to talk to you. Click here, fill in the form, and we will be in touch in a couple of days.
About the Author
Christine Merle DVM, MBA, CVPM
Dr. Merle is a member of the VMG Facilitator Corps. She is currently an independent consultant and an associate veterinarian in a privately owned veterinary practice. A life-long learner she believes that her veterinary degree when combined with her business degree allowed her to capitalize on the opportunities to experience first- hand how the animal health industry and veterinary medicine have changed forever. She has held a wide variety of roles from academia, practice management consulting and international speaking to animal health industry positions. Stepping back into practice after 20 years may be a little daunting but she comes with fresh eyes that are only sparking her desires to once again support veterinary practices and their teams with skills and tools to fuel their success.
