American Veterinary Medical Association

American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) is a not-for-profit association representing more than 97,000 veterinarians working in private and corporate practice, government, industry, academia, and uniformed services. The AVMA acts as a collective voice for its membership and the profession in the United States to advance the science and practice of veterinary medicine to improve animal and human health. Founded in 1863, it is one of the oldest and largest veterinary medical organizations in the world.

History

The AVMA was established in 1863 as the United States Veterinary Medical Association, changing its name to the American Veterinary Medical Association in 1898 to better reflect its national scope. The organization was founded by a group of veterinarians who recognized the need for a national body to advocate for the profession and set standards for veterinary education and practice.

Mission and Vision

The mission of the AVMA is to lead the profession by advocating for its members and advancing the science and practice of veterinary medicine to improve animal and human health. The vision of the AVMA is to be the trusted leader in protecting, promoting, and advancing a strong, unified veterinary profession that meets the needs of society.

Membership

Membership in the AVMA is open to veterinarians who are graduates of a veterinary school accredited by the AVMA Council on Education or who have received certification through the Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates (ECFVG) certification program or the Program for the Assessment of Veterinary Education Equivalence (PAVE).

Governance

The AVMA is governed by a House of Delegates, which meets annually and is composed of representatives from state and allied veterinary groups. The Executive Board, elected by the House of Delegates, oversees the association's policies and programs.

Activities and Services

The AVMA provides a wide range of services to its members and the public, including:

• Advocacy on public policy issues affecting veterinary medicine, animal welfare, and public health
• Accreditation of veterinary colleges through the AVMA Council on Education
• Certification of foreign veterinary graduates
• Publication of scientific journals, including the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Journal of Veterinary Research
• Continuing education opportunities for veterinary professionals
• Guidance on professional ethics and animal welfare issues

Publications

The AVMA publishes several key publications, including the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA), which is one of the most respected veterinary journals in the world, and the American Journal of Veterinary Research (AJVR), which publishes reports of applied research in veterinary medicine and associated biological sciences.

Controversies and Challenges

Like any large organization, the AVMA has faced its share of controversies and challenges, particularly in areas related to animal welfare, veterinary education, and the regulation of the profession. The association works to address these issues through its governance structure, policy development processes, and advocacy efforts.

Conclusion

The American Veterinary Medical Association plays a critical role in the advancement of veterinary medicine in the United States. Through its advocacy, education, and accreditation efforts, the AVMA works to ensure the health and well-being of animals and humans alike, reflecting the vital connection between veterinary medicine and public health.