The Dermatology Service at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at Virginia Tech is undergoing a dynamic transformation, marked by strategic hiring and the launch of new educational programs. 

This period of growth not only promises improved services for pet owners and referring veterinarians but also boosts veterinary dermatology education and practice.

Balancing Education and Patient Care

In a teaching hospital, dedicating time to instructing veterinary students necessitates accepting a lower caseload to ensure the delicate balance between high educational quality and patient care. 

"We are committed to offering each case the time and attention it deserves. This approach ensures optimal patient care and supports our students' learning experience,” explained Ben Tham, clinical associate professor of veterinary dermatology in the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, highlighting the department's dual focus on providing optimal care while enriching student learning.

However, the dermatology department needs help with appointment wait times, a situation Tham and his team are eager to address with the new expansion plans. 

Strategic Hiring to Improve Services

The recruitment of Ivan Ravera, assistant professor, following his tenure at Louisiana State University, is a strategic move expected to make significant strides in overcoming current limitations.

"The arrival of Dr. Ravera is a game-changer for us. His expertise and experience promise to enhance our clinical services and significantly reduce our appointment wait times," said Tham.  

Expanding Educational Opportunities

With education at the cornerstone of the department's mission, the department previously faced limitations in offering comprehensive dermatology rotations to fourth-year students on clinical rotations within the Teaching Hospital due to faculty constraints. With Ravera's addition, these barriers are being removed. 

"We're excited to expand our dermatology rotations to give even more educational opportunities for our students," said Tham, indicating his commitment to nurturing future veterinary professionals. "I take my job very seriously because we need veterinarians willing to teach, or we will face a shortage of competent veterinarians.”

Internship and Residency in Veterinary Dermatology 

As part of its plans to grow, the department is introducing a specialized internship program in June 2024, followed by a residency program slated to begin in July 2025. Tham views these programs as essential to the department's growth: "Launching our internship and residency programs is vital for preparing a new wave of specialists in veterinary dermatology," he said, highlighting the strategic importance of these initiatives in addressing the field's broader needs.

Supporting Growth Through Specialized Veterinary Technicians

A crucial part of the department's success and capacity to grow has been the support of licensed veterinarians with a veterinary technician specialty (VTS) in dermatology. Pursuing a VTS in dermatology by technicians like Shaun-Claire Young enhances the department's clinical capabilities and signifies the growing recognition of technicians' vital role in specialized veterinary care. This development underscores a broader trend towards specialization within veterinary support roles, promising improved patient outcomes and richer collaborative environments for veterinary professionals. 

Innovations and Vision for the Future

The department's embrace of innovative technologies, such as acquiring a carbon dioxide laser unit, underscores its commitment to staying at the forefront of treatment innovations. "Incorporating advanced technologies like the CO2 laser into our treatments will enable us to offer state-of-the-art care, ensuring we remain leaders in veterinary dermatology," said Tham. 

Tham's vision for the future is clear and ambitious as the department moves forward. "Our goal is to elevate the standard of care we provide, enrich our educational programs, and make a lasting impact on the veterinary field. With our team's collective efforts and our community's support, I am confident we will achieve these objectives.

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