VIN

So this is kind of insignificant to most, but it's a HUGE thing to me. I am part of an online community called VIN - Veterinary Information Network. It's a resource for veterinarians that covers everything from basic message boards to online continuing education, classified ads, job searches, etc. It's awesome, and I've been a member since I was a vet student. In fact, our website is set up through the VIN site.

I was recently involved in a lengthy discussion about clients and the changes we are seeing in vet med, and that discussion led to another discussion about getting a group of veterinarians together to brainstorm and vent and discuss issues and try to come up with solutions. Then that led to a conversation about that group getting together soon, and to gather at the VIN location in Davis, CA.

I made it to the first list, so I'm in. It's probably not a big deal, and might lead to absolutely nothing, but being able to participate is a BIG deal to me. I feel like I'm a part of something, like I might be able to contribute and hell, maybe even be involved on the ground floor of something for change in veterinary medicine. There is growing concern that our national voice, the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) is starting to grow a deaf ear to our concerns and even starting to sell out to the big brats like pet insurance. Maybe this will turn into something bigger than we can anticipate!

I'll be heading up there for a short weekend in a few weeks. I'll let you guys know how it goes. :)