PROFESSIONALISM
COLLEGIALITY IN THE VETERINARY PROFESSION WHY IS IT IMPORTANT ?
SUBMITTED BY DR . IRENE MOORE
What is collegiality , and why is it important ? The Merriam Webster dictionary definition of collegiality states it is “ the cooperative relationship of colleagues ” 1 . Unfortunately , there is an increasing lack of collegiality in workplaces , including the veterinary profession .
The World Small Animal Veterinary Association ( WSAVA ) and the Federation of European Companion Animal Veterinary Association ( FECAVA ) recently responded to this issue by developing a set of guidelines to outline optimal ways veterinary professionals should interact among their peers . 2 They developed these guidelines to address the increasing stress experienced by veterinary professionals in response to poor collegiality and communication . This was noted to within veterinary teams as well as among veterinarians .
Work-related stress has been identified as a major factor impacting veterinary mental health and emotional wellbeing .
Considerable attention has been focused on these issues in the last few years . Previous survey research has shown that positive relationships with veterinary and non-veterinary colleagues was one of the strongest determinants of veterinarian job or career satisfaction . 3 A lack of job satisfaction can lead to burnout and leaving the profession . In other healthcare professions , burnout and job dissatisfaction have been identified to impact the quality of care and patient outcomes . 4 , 5 The global pandemic has exacerbated the shortage of veterinary team members , thus it behooves all of us to try to ensure an optimal work environment , both within the clinic , as well as with our veterinary colleagues .
These are the Global Principles developed by WSAVA and FECAVA : 6
– Respect your colleagues
– Don ’ t discriminate – Communicate openly and honestly
– Never denigrate a colleague in front of others
– Support and play an active part in professional organizations
– Provide clear and comprehensive notes for referral patients
– Be aware of the health , wellbeing and safety of yourself and colleagues
– Consider ( early ) mediation to resolve conflicts
– Share your knowledge and give support , especially to younger colleagues
– Commit to continuing professional education
– Allow and listen to criticism
The CVO has also identified a need to promote professionalism and collegiality between colleagues in different practices . 7 Conflict is often related to perceived advertising infractions , soliciting clients , or not transferring medical records in a timely fashion .
While increasing competition might be fueling incivility among practices , disrespectful behaviour can lead to suboptimal care for patients when records are not transferred in a timely fashion , as well as the risk of losing respect in the eyes of the public . Moreover , other veterinary team members may model these behaviours within the clinic , leading to a toxic environment . Toxic environments have been associated with decreased job satisfaction and increased exhaustion
Dr . Irene Moore
and cynicism in a study of veterinary practices . 8
By adhering to the Global Principles proposed by WSAVA and FECAVA , the veterinary profession can continue to be held in its traditionally high esteem .
By self-reflecting on our own behavior with colleagues and the veterinary team , we can identify whether there is a need for additional coaching or training . For instance , Harvard University has provided an online resource to identify implicit and explicit biases . 9 Other professions have found structured interventions to enhance civility and collegiality also reduced turnover intent and burnout , which is particularly relevant as veterinary clinics currently struggle with being under-staffed . 10
In summary , by improving collegiality , we can enhance communication among veterinary peers and within our clinics , reduce workplace stress , provide optimal care for our patients , and continue to meet the expectations of our clients .
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2 College Connection Fall 2021 cvo . org