The Swine Health Management category has approximately 23 active Diplomates. They work in private practice as well as industry and academia. Diplomates have the expertise to serve as consultants for the swine industry and are expected to be skilled in the art and science of medicine and surgery for the individual animal in addition to herd health, production, and economics.
Veterinarians who pursue Swine Health Management certification may work on different species of production and companion animals but the majority of their practice is with swine. They have access to the latest equipment, supplies, and medical/surgical procedures. They routinely see interesting, complex cases and herd problems and are able to work them up and manage them at a high standard. Diplomates frequently consult and provide continuing education to producers, students, industry, and other veterinarians.
Certification is challenging but rewarding. Veterinarians must have at least 5 years of full-time, high-quality practice experience with swine prior to taking the certification exams. They should be able to document a commitment to high-level continuing education. They also must be able to communicate professionally and scientifically by following instructions and preparing written case reports. To pass the comprehensive examination, candidates often spend an average of 1 hour per day studying, reading textbook and journal articles, and taking courses and practice tests. A Regent is available to answer questions and provide assistance and feedback.
The Swine Health Management Practice category is an AVMA-recognized veterinary specialty™.
There are special requirements for Swine Health Management applicants in addition to the standard ABVP credentialing and examination process.