The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) has released a groundbreaking study titled “Stay, Please: Factors that Support Retention and Drive Attrition in the Veterinary Profession.” This study sheds light on the critical realities demanding attention within the veterinary ecosystem. The first of its kind from AAHA, it delves into factors influencing retention and attrition among veterinary professionals, offering valuable insights for leaders and managers in the field.
Key findings from the study highlight a concerning trend: a significant portion of the veterinary workforce is contemplating leaving their current positions. Specifically, the study reveals 30% of surveyed veterinary professionals currently in clinical practice, projected at nearly 74,000 individuals, plan to depart within the next year. Shockingly, half of those planning to leave — approximately 37,500 individuals — are considering leaving clinical practice altogether, with a staggering 90% expressing no intention of returning to the field. The study underscores the magnitude of the issue, estimating that over 25,500 veterinarian providers — equivalent to 13.5% of those in clinical roles — are planning to exit the profession permanently.
In response to these alarming statistics, the AAHA presents two proposed strategies for practices aiming to improve retention: a holistic approach and a role-based perspective.
- The holistic approach emphasizes a multi-step strategy that addresses both the operational aspects of practices and the fundamental needs of team members. Key steps include ensuring fair compensation, fostering appreciation for work, supporting career development, and promoting caring leadership. Additionally, practices are encouraged to cultivate factors that make people want to stay, such as fostering teamwork, offering flexibility in scheduling and job duties, and supporting staff well-being.
- The role-based approach targets individual roles within practices, recognizing that different team members have distinct motivations and objectives. This persona-based approach enables practices to tailor retention strategies to the unique needs and perspectives of different team members.
Overall, the AAHA’s study serves as a clarion call for action within the veterinary profession, urging stakeholders to prioritize retention efforts and address the root causes of attrition. As veterinary practices grapple with workforce challenges, the insights provided by the Stay, Please study offer a roadmap for fostering a supportive and sustainable environment for veterinary professionals.
