Progress 09/01/16 to 08/31/21
Outputs
Target Audience:Individuals impacted by project activities include CSU DVM students, University of Colorado Rural Track medical students, Colorado rural community members, Colorado veterinarians, livestock producer associations, individual livestock producers and their employees. Changes/Problems: COVID-19 impacted all areas of grant activity as faculty, staff and CSU Online efforts were necessarily redirected to manage the transition to remote teaching and learning. This directly impacted efforts associated with Aim 2b due to cancellation of the Rural Immersion Program. Regarding Aim 2c, CSU Online was not available for development of created content into online CE, and we experienced the untimely death of a key livestock faculty member; both of these impacts prohibited progress. The COVID-associated remote nature of the academic environment negatively impacted wellbeing for many and distanced relationships (e.g. mentor-mentee). Challenges to post-graduation tracking and surveying of livestock-focused alumni were exacerbated by the pandemic. Our new Data Analyst, hired in July 2020, has developed and implemented a more individualized, targeted strategy for alumni outreach so we anticipate greater opportunity to incorporate feedback into programming, and to extend programming to alumni, in future years. As previously reported, it was determined that a listing of externship sites was of limited value to students without curation and active mentoring. This aim wasamended to include the Pathways Program implemented in Spring 2021, which we view as a far superior product. We are encouraged by initial usage data highlighted above. As noted, biannual MD-DVM seminars were terminated due to scheduling differences that precluded sufficient attendance. Exciting partnerships with CSU One Health, Inclusive Health Collaborative, CSU Public Health, and the CSU branch of the University of Colorado MD program provide opportunity for robust interdisciplinary programming. It is anticipated that the Rural Immersion Program will be reinitiated in 2022. Due to COVID and the December 2020 retirement of Dr. Laurie Fonken, wellbeing initiatives, though valued, were necessarily put on hold. A new DVM counselor and director of wellbeing services was hired and began employment on August 2nd2021. The CSU DVM livestock program has remained largely unchanged for decades. An external review in 2018 outlined current industry trends and revealed needed change in the way that clients are served and students are trained. As noted, the CSU DVM program is undergoing robust curriculum revision. The "new" curriculum, slated for implementation in Fall 2023, will strategically integrate programming around wellbeing, professional identify, and mentorship. Students will be exposed to hands-on skills beginning in year one, and will enter clinical rotations sooner. Curriculum content is being revised to emphasize primary care across species. Collectively, this approach will allow students to emphasize areas of interest, gain more robust primary care experience, and advance their knowledge and skills to a greater degree. These experiences will more closely approximate authentic professional functions and responsibilities, and optimally equip future rural practitioners for personal and professional success. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?The majority of VSGP aims include educational and training opportunities that will not be duplicated here. In addition to project accomplishments, the VSGP has provided experiences for DVM students in needs assessment tools, curricular design, research involving human subjects, outcomes assessment, interviewing, interdisciplinary collaboration, and workshop development. Additionally, students directly interacted with medical school students and faculty, veterinarians, livestock producers, and their employees. Dr. Danielle Frey, Director of DVM Regional and International Outreach, has partnered with Ms. Shannon Zeller in creating and delivering the Spanish language practicum and is a co-author of the pending publication describing the DVM Spanish language program. Dr. Frey was also instrumental in implementing the DVM Pathways Program. Her involvement in VSGP activities has solidified and validated her position and work within the college. The synergistic partnership between Ms. Zeller and Dr. Frey has augmented the quality and breadth of both lines of programming. Ms. Zeller, key developer instructor of the Spanish language offerings, secured a full time appointment in the CSU Department of Languages, Literature and Cultures, partly due to her work on VSGP-related activities. Additionally, Ms. Zeller is pursuing a PhD focused on the task-based approach to language learning that serves as the foundation for VSGP-related coursework. The VSGP award and associated publication and speaking opportunities were beneficial to Dr. Frye as she successfully sought promotion to full professor within the Department of Biomedical Sciences within the CSU College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Aim 1a Mr. Keiser was invited to facilitate a conference track "Pricing Strategies for Rural Hospitals" at the 2021 Montana VMA Winter Meeting, using data gleaned from the survey of rural practices. Dr. Frye conducted talks on the CSU DVM Financial Education Program at the Royal Dick School of Veterinary Studies in Edinburgh, Scotland, and the Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in St. Kitts, West Indies. Aim 1b Dr. Frye, Dr. Roman-Muniz, Dr. Velasquez-Castillo, and Ms. Zeller continue to develop a manuscript for publication in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medicine Association that describes the collaborative, task-based approach to Spanish language instruction integrated into VSGP programming. The estimated submission date has been delayed with necessary redirection of effort due to COVID-19; the new goal for submission is winter 2021. Course designers submitted the final draft of a chapter entitled "Spanish for the Livestock Industry" for a book entitled "Routledge Handbook on Spanish for Specific Purposes". The novel approach to Spanish language education of veterinary students was showcased at the 2017 American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges Annual Conference, within local and national media outlets (e.g. Harvest Public Radio, National Public Radio, The Denver Post) and within language conferences (e.g. Hispanics Linguistics Symposium, ISLP-CIBER Language Conference). Overall "A Holistic Approach to Enhancing the Rural Veterinary Population" was published by Scientia, an outreach research publication, in the Fall of 2019. Drs. Roman-Muniz and Frye highlighted VSGP activities annually as they interfaced with undergraduate and graduate students intending to enter the CSU DVM program. Communication regarding VSGP activities occurred formally and informally through on-campus lectures and off-campus presentations at state livestock producer conferences (e.g. Dairy Day at the Colorado Farm Show), regional planning meetings (e.g. the Western Dairy Management Conference, Colorado Governor's Agriculture Forum, Western Agricultural Safety and Health Conference), and professional conferences (e.g. American Association of Bovine Practitioners, Welfare Symposium, Women in Agribusiness Summit). Key personnel conducted annual informational sessions open to all DVM students, during which time VSGP aims were described, key personnel introduced, and information regarding student employment and engagement opportunities provided. The 4thYear Student Survey was administered to members of the Class of 2021. In 2018 and 2019, between 30-35% of respondents indicated an interest in rural practice; in 2020 and 2021, this number decreased to 25% and 28% respectively. These data must be interpreted in light of the pandemic, as financial and societal uncertainly may have led some individuals to secure different employment.In 2020, the survey was improved to include only those individuals interested in rural practice in the follow up questions. Using a 1-7 scale (1 = the DVM program didn't prepare me at all, 4 = neutral, 7 = the DVM program prepared me very well), the following percentage of respondents assigned ratings of 5 or higher to the following in relation to rural practice (data reported as 2020/2021 values): Continuing education opportunities: 33%/21% Financial principles and practice management: 39%/32% State or federal funding for rural veterinarians: 72%/37% Spanish language: 28%/26% Externship opportunities: 67%/26% Population analytics: 39%/26% Wellbeing: 33%/16% The 2021 data reflected lower satisfaction with all DVM program components (i.e. not just those relevant to training of future rural practitioners). This was attributed primarily to the pandemic that necessitated remote delivery and cancellation of in-house and external learning opportunities. Not all respondents participated in elective financial, Spanish language, and wellbeing training. Students who did participate in these offerings, as noted previously, uniformly expressed perceived value and relevance. Clearly, however, opportunity for improvement in preparing students for rural practice remains. Respondents were asked if additional resources in these areas would increase the likelihood of pursuing a professional role in a rural community. Using a 1-7 scale (1 = not at all, 4 = neutral, 7 = greatly increase likelihood), the following percentage of respondents assigned ratings of 5 or higher to the following (data reported as 2020/2021 values): Continuing education opportunities: 39%/34% Financial principles and practice management: 41%/37% State or federal funding for rural veterinarians: 26%/48% Spanish language: 54%/35% Externship opportunities: 49%/38% Population analytics: 58%/31% Wellbeing: 52%/52% This information, disseminated to program faculty and administration as well as the VSGP team, was used to assess student awareness of available resources and the efficacy of current outreach and engagement strategies, as well as inform program design and future emphasis. Financial education and expansion of state and federal funding for debt relief represent key areas for development (note:members of the CSU College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences led a successful effort to create the Veterinary Education Loan Repayment Program for livestock veterinarians, signed into law June 2017). Students also identified wellbeing education and resources as a high priority in incentivizing rural practice. As financial status and wellbeing are intertwined, development of financial and business acumen islikely to enhance wellbeing in rural practitioners. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?
Nothing Reported
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Aim 1a Major activities completed Integration of information specific to rural practice management and financial planning into 3rdyear DVM course Practice Management. Practice management externship for DVM students: "Unbridled: Inspiring the Next Generation of Rural Veterinary Practice Owners." Survey of rural practices in CO, MT, WY, WA and ID andcompilation of rural hospital case studies for use in future externships, classes, and online courses. "Aspiring Practice Ownership","Financial Considerations for the Rural Veterinarian" and "Personal Financial Considerations for Rural Veterinarians" elective workshops for DVM students. One-on-one financial advising tailored to aspiring rural practitioners. Data collected, discussion of results Workshop, externship and course surveys: students uniformly identified content as relevant, valuable, timely, and practical. The key aim of the Western state survey was to understand the relationships, if any, between factors assessed (e.g. staffing, culture, marketing, Spanish language training) and profitability. The data showed that the "healthiest" hospitals assumed an intentional approach to mixed practice; for example, scheduling doctors and staff to focus on either small or large animal services within a given day. The data also showed that solo practitioners focusing on a niche service(e.g. acupuncture, bovine spaying) had better performance metrics than those providing broad services. Many "niche" solo practitioners managed general cases, but generated a significant portion of their revenue from their specialty services. Key OutcomesAs reported in our manuscript entitled "Integrating Individual Student Advising into Financial Education to Optimize Financial Literacy in Veterinary Students" (JVME 2019), the CSU financial education and advising program is associated with application of financial knowledge and a positive change in financial behaviors. While these data apply to all CSU DVM students, the Financial Education Specialist developed expertise in best practices inherent to rural veterinary practice. Class of 2021 respondents to the 4thYear Student Survey (not limited to those with rural interests) reported enhanced knowledge and skills in the areas of budgeting (51%), identification of sales pressure (17%), insurance (28%), job benefits (46%), loan forgiveness (54%) and repayment (60%) options, retirement (40%), and strategic financial decision-making (36%). Aim 1b Major activities completed Introduction to Spanish for Veterinarians, 2-credit elective: 96 enrolled, Fall 2018-2021 Spanish for Rural Veterinary Practice I-IV, each a 1-credit elective: 246 total enrollment, 2019 -2021 Spanish language elective practicum, 20 hours: 178 enrolled, Fall 2016-2020 Data collected, discussion of resultsCourse and practicum assessments reflected students' ability to converse in Spanish using task-specific vocabulary. Student course surveys uniformly reflected perceived value and professional relevance. Key OutcomesVSGP support has allowed for the testing and development of this innovative program of discipline-specific Spanish language training, most relevant to livestock veterinarians working with Spanish-speaking producers and employees. Students reported feeling prepared and motivated for future professional interactions. The curriculum designers have been awarded a PetSmart Charities grant to develop similar curriculum relevant to companion animals for broad distribution. Aim 1c Major activities completedDVM Pathways Program, implemented in Spring 2021: "Corporate Livestock Medicine", "Population Health". Each Pathway site contains current information regarding mentors, careers, training and education requirements, relevant DVM electives, professional organizations and student clubs, experiential opportunities, conferences, skills for success, and key employers. Data collected, discussion of results Corporate Livestock Medicine: six interest forms submitted; page viewed 37 times over the last 90 days Population Health: fifteen interest forms submitted; page viewed 60 times over the last 90 days Key OutcomesDue to recent implementation, no outcomes can be reported at this time. Aim 1d Major activities completed Reproductive herd health exercise: anticipated integration into core curriculum AY2021-2022. Food-borne outbreak investigation exercise: in core DVM course Veterinary Preventative Medicine. Mastitis investigation exercise: in core livestock course Bovine Herd Medicine. Microsoft Excel pivot table use/interpretation guide for DVM students. Data collected, discussion of resultsExercises were described by students as "engaging", "well-organized", "informative". Students valued exposure to pivot tables and "investigating causes and solutions", as well as opportunity to apply material previously learned. Key OutcomesThe DVM program is undergoing major revision, ultimately resulting in training that better emphasizes primary care and herd health. At this time students have only modest opportunities to interpret large datasets in the context of developing herd-level recommendations. Aims 2a, 2b Major activities completed Interdisciplinary Rural Immersion Program in 2017, 2018 (DVM participant withdrew in 2019; the experience was canceled in 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic). Semiannual rural MD-DVM student-led conferences through 2019, topics included zoonotic diseases and public health. Data collected, discussion of results Rural Immersion Program: Both students reported value of interprofessional networking and the opportunity to learn about rural life holistically and authentically. MD-DVM conferences: attended by fewer than 20 DVM students due to differences in MD and DVM student scheduling. DVM student participants verbalized greater appreciation for shared human-veterinary problems and greater likelihood of engaging in interprofessional collaborations. Key OutcomesImplementation of intentional interdisciplinary programming, particularly related to rural practice, was novel within the CSU DVM program. A new CSU branch of the CU School of Medicine creates additional opportunity, some of which is currently underway in the form of the Inclusive Health Collaborative and grant support for One Health education of MD and DVM students. Aim 2c Major activities completed Spanish for Rural Veterinarians series, detailed in Aim 1b Livestock Nutrition content created Data collected, discussion of resultsPlease refer to Aim 1b and "Changes/Problems" Key OutcomesPlease refer to Aim 1b and "Changes/Progblems" Aim 2d Major activities completed Panel discussion, "Women in Livestock and Rural Medicine": 70 attendees Two four-hour sessions, "Mental Health First Aid": 45 attendees One-time offerings, Mental Health and Wellbeing in Rural Communities, Successes and Challenges in Health and Wellbeing Panel Discussion, Living Mindfully, Colorado Rural Health Centers Resources for Mental Health: 36+ attendees. Data collected, discussion of results Women in Livestock and Rural Medicine: attendee feedback reflected value of interface with practicing professionals and the opportunity to discuss authentic experiences, challenges, and opportunities. Many reported feeling energized and inspired by the event. Mental Health First Aid: attendee feedback reflected skill attainment and overall value. Key OutcomesParticipants reported skill development (e.g. recognition of mental illness, interventional tools), improved ability to identify challenges inherent to rural practitioners, and increased awareness of resources within rural communities.
Publications
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Awaiting Publication
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Keiser, S. Mixing up the mixed animal hospital model. Today's Veterinary Business 2021; 5. (October/November)
- Type:
Book Chapters
Status:
Under Review
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
Zeller S and Velasquez-Castillo, M. Espanol para el ambito de la agropecuaria (Spanish for agriculture). In: Routledge Handbook of Spanish for Specific Purposes (Lafford BA, Sanchez-Lopez L, Ferriera Cabrera A, and Arno Macia E, eds). Taylor & Francis Routledge, Oxfordshire. (final draft under review). Taylor & Francis Routledge, Abingdon, Oxfordshire.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2022
Citation:
A discipline-specific approach to Spanish language training of veterinary students (in preparation).
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Frye M and Roman-Muniz N. A holistic approach to enhancing the rural veterinary population. Scientia 2019; Oct 9.
|
Progress 09/01/19 to 08/31/20
Outputs
Target Audience: Individuals impacted by project activities include CSU DVM students, University of Colorado Rural Track medical students, Colorado rural community members, Colorado veterinarians, livestock producer associations, individual livestock producers and their employees. Changes/Problems: COVID-19 impacted all areas of grant activity as faculty, staff and CSU Online efforts were necessarily redirected to manage the transition to remote teaching and learning. It was determined that a listing of externship sites was of limited value to students without curation and active mentoring. This aim wasamended to include the Pathways Program, which we view as a far superior product. Post-graduation tracking and surveying of livestock-focused alumni continues to be a challenge. A small subset are active in mentoring current students, thus readily available for feedback. A new Data Analyst was hired in July 2020, and has begun work to improve alumni outreach and survey responsiveness. As noted, biannual MD-DVM seminars were terminated due to scheduling differences that precluded sufficient attendance. Exciting partnerships with CSU One Health, CSU Public Health, and the CSU branch of the University of Colorado MD program provide opportunity for robust interdisciplinary programming. Two new livestock faculty hires, along with a pricing restructure to bring more "bread and butter" livestock cases to the VTH, will benefit livestock-oriented students in the upcoming reporting period. It is anticipated that the outreach associated with marketing these new services to producers and referring veterinarians will improve engagement with the teaching hospital and enhance student opportunities. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?In addition to the aforementioned activities which impact attendees, the project has continued to provide opportunities to two DVM student researchers assisting key personnel (Spanish language and herd health/data analytics). Shannon Zeller, key developer and instructor of the Spanish language offerings, has secured a full time appointment in the CSU Department of Languages, Literature and Cultures due partly to her work on VSGP-related activities. Maintenance of aforementioned educational offerings will make up 40% of her FTE. Additionally, Ms. Zeller continues to pursue a PhD based on the task-based approach to language learning that serves as the foundation for VSGP-related coursework. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?"A Holistic Approach to Enhancing the Rural Veterinary Population" was published by Scientia, an "outreach research publication", in the Fall of 2019. Mr. Keiser has been invited to facilitate a conference track "Pricing Strategies for Rural Hospitals" at the 2021 Montana VMA Winter Meeting, using data gleaned from the aforementioned survey of rural practices. Dr. Roman-Muniz continues to highlight VSGP activities during invited presentations and discussions. Meetings in the last year include the American Association of Bovine Practitioners Annual Conference, the Welfare Symposium, and the Colorado Governor's Agriculture Forum. Dr. Roman-Muniz continues to share project goals and accomplishments with undergraduate students in the CSU Department of Animal Sciences and livestock producer groups. Key personnel again conducted an annual informational session open to all DVM students. As in the past, VSGP aims are described, key personnel introduced, and information regarding student employment opportunities provided. Dr. Frye, Dr. Roman-Muniz, Dr. Velasquez-Castillo, and Ms. Zeller continue to develop a manuscript for publication in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medicine Association that describes the collaborative, task-based approach to Spanish language instruction integrated into VSGP programming. The estimated submission date has been delayed with necessary redirection of effort due to COVID-19; the new goal for submission is winter 2021. Course designers of the "Spanish for Rural Veterinary Practice" series presented their work at the 5thISLP-CIBER Language Conference in the Spring of 2020. For improved tracking of impact, questions regarding rural and livestock veterinary careers were edited again included in the annual survey of fourth year students administered just prior to graduation. In 2018 and 2019, between 30-35% of respondents indicated an interest in rural practice; in 2020 only 25% of students aspired to work in a rural community. In 2020, the survey was improved to include only those individuals interested in rural practice in the follow up questions. Using a 1-7 scale (1 = the DVM program didn't prepare me at all, 4 = neutral, 7 = the DVM program prepared me very well), the following percentage of respondents assigned ratings of 5 or higher to the following in relation to rural practice: Continuing education opportunities: 33% Financial principles and practice management: 39% State or federal funding for rural veterinarians: 72% Spanish language: 28% (17% answered "N/A") Externship opportunities: 67% Population analytics: 39% (11% answered "N/A") Wellbeing: 33% (11% answered "N/A") Respondents were asked if additional resources in these areas would increase the likelihood of pursuing a professional role in a rural community. Using a 1-7 scale (1 = not at all, 4 = neutral, 7 = greatly increase likelihood), the following percentage of respondents assigned ratings of 5 or higher to the following: Continuing education opportunities: 39% (17% answered "N/A") Financial principles and practice management: 41% (17% answered "N/A") State or federal funding for rural veterinarians: 26% (22% answered "N/A") Spanish language: 54% (19% answered "N/A") Externship opportunities: 49% (20% answered "N/A") Population analytics: 58% (17% answered "N/A") Wellbeing: 52% (19% answered "N/A") This information, disseminated to program faculty and administration as well as the VSGP team, is used to assess student awareness of available resources and the efficacy of current outreach and engagement strategies, as well as inform program design and future emphasis. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Aim 1a Launch a VSGP Internship Program for one to two CSU DVM students each year. Host the aforementioned externship program in the Spring of 2021. Having established interest and feasibility, identify a partner to partially subsidize this program. Continue the annual "Aspiring Practice Ownership", "Financial Considerations for the Rural Veterinarian" and "Personal Financial Considerations for Rural Veterinarians" seminars. Aim 1b Deliver all four "Spanish for Rural Veterinarians" online modules. Further refine the "Introduction to Spanish for Veterinarians" course and "Spanish for Livestock Veterinarians" practicum. Submit manuscript. Aim 1c Establish additional partnerships with livestock faculty, industry allies and livestock production companies to catalog a total of 20 externship sites by Spring 2021. Introduce and implement the interactive "DVM Pathways" program. Aim 1d Integrate the module "Parasite Control in Small Ruminants with Ivermectin" intoVM757 Bovine Herd Medicine. Aim 2a/2b Continue to execute combined veterinary and human health clinics. Realize a multidisciplinary student-led collaborative workshop. Aim 2c Launch livestock nutrition, practice management, and Spanish online offerings. Continue collaborations with experts to develop modules on well-being and small animal medicine for the large animal practitioner. Aim 2d Conduct a panel discussion in Fall 2020 featuring rural veterinarians, extension agents, and producers. Collaborate with the Colorado Department of Agriculture, Colorado Crisis Services, and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Colorado to create additional curricular content and support resources for DVM Students aspiring to work in rural communities. Conduct the "Mental Health First Aid" seminar.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Aim 1a: Mr. Stith Keiser, Blue Heron Consulting; Mrs. Kayla Andrews, Colorado State University (CSU) DVM Financial Education Specialist The "Aspiring Practice Ownership" workshop was offered by Mr. Keiser for a second time in January 2020. Additionally, two evening classes were offered, "Financial Considerations for the Rural Veterinarian" (Mr. Keiser) and "Personal Financial Considerations for Rural Veterinarians" (Ms. Kayla Andrews) that same month. Student attendance at both sessions was excellent. Mr. Keiser and students completed a compilation of rural hospital case studies using results from the 2018/2019 survey on financial performance. The resultant resource will be used in future externships, classes, and online courses. In analyzing the feasibility of a recurring externship program for CSU DVM students, it was determined that both the value and interest exist. Due to COVID, the 2020 externship program was canceled, but it will be offered in the Spring of 2021 if public health conditions permit. As the DVM Financial Education Specialist, Ms. Andrews continues to offer one-on-one financial advising to students who aim to live and work in rural communities. Aim 1b: Dr. Maura Velazquez-Castillo, Professor, and Ms. Shannon Zeller, Instructor, CSU Department of Languages, Literature and Cultures; Dr. Noa Roman-Muniz, Associate Professor, CSU Department of Animal Sciences and Extension Dairy Specialist, and VSGP Coordinator Enrollment caps in the series of "Spanish for Rural Veterinary Practice" courses were increased from 25 to 35 due to high student interest. Courses oneand twowere enhanced and delivered in the Spring of 2020, with overall positive student feedback. The third course in the series was completed in Spring 2020 and the final course was completed in August 2020. "Introduction to Spanish for Veterinarians" was enhanced and offered for the second time in Fall 2019. Students provided positive feedback. The 3rd-year 20-hour practicum "Spanish for Veterinarians" that has been offered since Fall of 2016 hashistorically focused on small animal practice, but in Fall 2019 a version emphasizing livestock-oriented language was offered. Students feedback was very positive relevant to both content and delivery. Aim 1c: Dr. Noa Roman-Muniz Recognizing that students interested in less conventional roles benefit from structured mentorship and vetted experiential opportunities, Dr. Fryeworked with College faculty and Dr. Danielle Frey (Director of Regional and International Outreach) to develop the "DVM Pathways Program", with one pathway being "Corporate Livestock Medicine" and another being "Population Health" (e.g. government, international, public health, epidemiology). Each Pathway site contains practical, current information regarding careers, training and education requirements, relevant DVM electives, professional organizations and student clubs, experiential opportunities, conferences, skills for success, and key employers. Faculty mentors and their biographies are also displayed. The Pathways program will be introduced to students this Fall 2020. Dr. Roman-Muniz collaborated with rural and large practitioners in Colorado, some of whom are graduates of CSU and participated in the Women in Livestock and Rural Medicine panel. Eight practitioners and three pharmaceutical companies were added to the externship database. We expect to have these externships integrated into the Pathways Program in the next reporting period. Aim 1d: Dr. Sangeeta Rao, Assistant Professor, CSU Department of Clinical Sciences The teaching module entitled "Foodborne Outbreak Investigation" was modified based on student feedback and integrated into VM714 Veterinary Preventative Medicine. Student comments reflected appreciation for the opportunity to use data in problem solving, walk through investigatory steps, and gain perspective on broad health implications. The teaching module entitled "Calf Mortality on a Northern Colorado Ranch" was delivered for the second time to students in VM757 Bovine Herd Medicine. A module entitled "Parasite Control in Small Ruminants with Ivermectin" is in development, with planned implementation in VM757 Bovine Herd Medicine in Spring 2021. Aims 2a, 2b: Dr. Melinda Frye, CSU Associate Dean for Veterinary Academic and Student Affairs and VSGP Principal Investigator; Dr. Mark Deutchman, Director of Rural Track Program, University of Colorado School of Medicine The 2020 Interdisciplinary Rural Immersion Program was canceled due to COVID-19. Semiannual student-led conferences conducted previously became unsustainable due to differences in MD and DVM student schedules. Drs. Frye and Deutchman solicited student participation in identifying alternative interprofessional activities. A multidisciplinary weekend conference is planned, but activities were necessarily tabled due to COVID-19. Community outreach events focused on both human and animal health are a sustainable multidisciplinary event that foster a high level of student interest and engagement. Three such events occurred in the reporting period, with one recurring weekly. Aim 2c: Dr. Noa Roman-Muniz An online version of the "Spanish for Rural Veterinarians" series that will be available to external audiences remains under development. Although work with CSU Online slowed with leadership change and COVID-19, Ms. Zeller has initiated the first steps with CSU Online and is currently pursuing RACE CE accreditation for the offerings. Dr. Shawn Archibeque of the CSU College of Agricultural Sciences has completed four one-credit livestock nutrition modules. Mr. Keiser initiated communications with CSU Online regarding online CE modules on financial and management best practices for rural hospitals. These discussions have been tableddue to the unexpected workload within CSU Online as a result of COVID. Aim 2d: Dr. Laurie Fonken, DVM Counselor and Wellness Coordinator Dr. Fonken offered a Women in Livestock and Rural Medicine Panel. The panel was moderated by Dr. Noa Roman-Muniz and panelists included four regional women veterinarians. The panel presentation was attended by over 70 members of the DVM and Animal Sciences programs and was well received. Dr. Fonken also collaborated with Summit Stone Health Partners to offer a four-hour session on "Mental Health First Aid" for rural-oriented DVM students. The 20 DVM students in attendance were introduced to risk factors and warning signs of developing mental illness, offeredapproaches to acute mental health crises, andprovided with resources for mental health and crisis management. In March of 2020 Dr. Fonken met with Dr.Morgan Valley, CSU Prevention Scientist and Program Evaluator, to discuss the goal of partnering with the Colorado Veterinary Medical Association to map clinics and veterinarians in rural communities across the state. Ultimately, the aim is to improve outreach and impact around mental health and wellbeing by connecting rural health care providers and developing strategies to build and support multidisciplinary health care teams. This initiative is currently on hold due to the COVID-19 impact on the university and state.
Publications
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Frye MA, Roman-Muniz N. A Holistic Approach to Boosting the Rural Veterinary Population. Scientia; October 9 2019. https://doi.org/10.33548/SCIENTIA415
|
Progress 09/01/18 to 08/31/19
Outputs
Target Audience:Individuals impacted by project activities include CSU DVM students, University of Colorado Rural Track medical students, Colorado rural community members, Colorado veterinarians, livestock producer associations, individual livestock producers and their employees. Changes/Problems: Identification and cataloging of experiential opportunities (Aim 1c) has slowed in the last year due to graduation of the associated student and lack of key personnel resources. Similarly, efforts to realize continuing education offerings (Aim 2c) temporarily stalled due to the unexpected death of a key faculty member. In the upcoming year, Dr. Frye will assume the duties of VSGP Coordinator, which will allow Dr. Roman-Muniz to fully develop these two areas in accordance with project aims. Regarding Aims 2a/b, Dr. Frye is in discussions with Dr. Deutchman regarding a more student-driven approach. Due to differences in class schedules, it is not possible to identify a day and time that suits both MD and DVM students; this has resulted in declining DVM student participation. Additionally, it was observed that the most integrated, engaging seminar to date was one that was led by a team of MD and DVM students. Collectively, this leads us to consider alternatives such as a half-day Saturday workshop designed by students and featuring a keynote speaker. A community outreach event focused on both human and animal health is a new activity relevant to Aims 2a/b. A pilot event conducted in the recent past suggests that this may be a sustainable multidisciplinary event that fosters a high level of student interest and engagement. In all cases, meaningful outcomes data have been sparse due to program initiation and relatively small participant numbers. Integration of relevant questions into the 4th year student survey will improve our ability to measure impact. Drs. Fonken and Roman-Muniz are tracking livestock- and rural-focused senior students for postgraduation surveying. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? In addition to the aforementioned activities which impact attendees, the project has continued to provide opportunities to the four DVM student researchers assisting key personnel. Ms. Zeller, key developer instructor of the Spanish language offerings, was recently offered a full time appointment in the CSU Department of Languages, Literature and Cultures due partly to her work on VSGP-related activities. Maintenance of aforementioned educational offerings will make up 40% of her FTE. Additionally, Ms. Zeller is pursuing a PhD based on the task-based approach to language learning that serves as the foundation for VSGP-related coursework. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? "A Holistic Approach to Enhancing the Rural Veterinary Population" is accepted and in final review, to be published by Scientia, an "outreach research publication", in the Fall of 2019. Mr. Keiser has been invited to facilitate a conference track at the 2021 Montana VMA Meeting to present data from the aforementioned survey of rural practices. Dr. Frye conducted talks on the CSU DVM Financial Education Program at the Royal Dick School of Veterinary Studies in Edinburgh, Scotland, and the Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in St. Kitts, West Indies. Dr. Roman-Muniz continues to highlight VSGP activities during invited presentations and discussions. Meetings in the last year include the American Association of Bovine Practitioners annual meeting in Phoenix, the Western Dairy Management Conference in Reno, Science on Tap in Fort Collins, the Women in Agribusiness Summit in Denver, and the Western Agricultural Safety and Health Conference in Seattle. Dr. Roman-Muniz will speak at the American Association of Bovine Practitioners annual meeting and the Pig Welfare Symposium in the Fall of 2019, at which time VSGP programming will be highlighted. Dr. Roman-Muniz continues to share project goals and accomplishments with undergraduate students in the CSU Department of Animal Sciences and livestock producer groups. Key personnel again conducted an annual informational session open to all DVM students. As in the past, VSGP aims are described, key personnel introduced, and information regarding student employment opportunities provided. Drs. Roman-Muniz and Frye continue to highlight the VSGP as they interface with undergraduate and graduate students intending to enter the CSU DVM program. Dr. Roman-Muniz, Dr. Velazquez-Castillo, Dr. Frye, and Ms. Zeller are preparing a manuscript for publication in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medicine Association that describes the collaborative, task-based approach to Spanish language instruction integrated into VSGP programming. The estimated submission date is January 2020. For improved tracking of impact, questions regarding rural and livestock veterinary careers were included in the annual survey of fourth year students administered just prior to graduation beginning in 2018. Questions reflect students' perceived level of prepardness in the key grant areas (e.g. practice management and finances, identification of federal funding opportunities, Spanish language, identification of externship opportunities, population analytics, awareness of continuing education opportunities, wellbeing). The degree to which VSGP activities contributed to student preparedness was assessed; an increase in the number of students reporting preparedness increased from 2018 to 2019 in five areas. Fewer students reported the ability to identify federal funding sources, which may have been due to personnel changeover in the Financial Education Specialist role. Fewer students also reported preparedness in the area of Spanish language, which is puzzling and is a trend that will be carefully monitored as more offerings become available. Respondents were also asked to define the degree to which additional resources would increase the likelihood of rural practice, using the same seven categories. Overall, increased information and training in all areas were viewed as useful in this regard. This information, disseminated to program faculty and administration, will be used to assess student awareness of available resources and the efficacy of current outreach and engagement strategies, as well as guide program design and emphasis. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Aim 1a Analyze the feasibility of creating a recurring externship program and, if warranted, create a scalable, sustainable program. Launch a VSGP Internship Program for one to two CSU students annually, emphasizing on-site experiential learning and identification of "best practices" for rural hospitals. Develop additional curriculum to be offered as an elective in January 2020. Offer two 1-hour sessions on Financial Considerations for the Rural Veterinarian to DVM students during the Fall of 2019 and Spring of 2020. Aim 1b Completion of "Spanish for Rural Veterinarians" online modules three and four, so that modules one and three will be offered every spring semester, and modules two and four will be offered every fall semester. This structure will allow flexibility in student scheduling and optimize opportunities for full completion of the series. Offering of the first livestock-focused "Spanish for Veterinarians" third year practicum in the Spring of 2020. Manuscript submission. Aim 1c Continued partnership with livestock faculty and the State Veterinarian to identify and catalog 20 externships by Spring 2020. Completion and dissemination of interactive "DVM Pathways" site, to include mentors, experiential opportunities, and workshops/seminars relevant to Corporate Livestock Medicine and Population Health. Aim 1d Completion of a module entitled "Parasite control in small ruminants with ivermectin" and continued collaboration with livestock faculty to develop a fourth module. Aim 2a/2b Completion of a combined veterinary and human health fair in October 2019 involving DVM and rural track MD students. Realization of a multidisciplinary student-led collaborative workshop. Aim 2c Finalize CVMBS-CSU Online MOU, then facilitate realization of livestock nutrition and practice management online offerings. Continue collaborations with experts to develop modules on well-being, small animal medicine for the large animal practitioner, and equine neonatal and urgent care. Aim 2d Conduct a panel discussion featuring women in veterinary medicine and rural practice in the Fall of 2019. Presentation of a panel discussion in the Spring of 2020 that features, extension agents, producers, and agricultural professionals. Collaboration with the CRHC, Colorado Crisis Services, and Summit Stone Health Partners to create additional curricular content for DVM Students aspiring to work in rural communities and develop strategies to build and support multidisciplinary health care teams in rural areas. Partnership with CRHC and the Colorado Veterinary Medical Association to map clinics and veterinarians in rural communities across the state, to improve outreach and impact. This would serve the dual purpose of expanding mentoring and experiential resources.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Aim 1a: Mr. Stith Keiser, Blue Heron Consulting; Ms. Kayla Andrews, Colorado State University (CSU) DVM Financial Education Specialist The survey of rural practices in CO, MT, WY, WA and ID was completed by Mr. Keiser. Data were integrated into workshops and externships described below. The "Aspiring Practice Ownership" workshop was offered by Mr. Keiser as an elective in the Spring of 2019. Students were led to define the value of practice ownership, characterize traits of successful owners, determine the impact of profitability on all stakeholders, identify indicators of financial health, and evaluate hospital purchase opportunities. In the Summer of 2019, Mr. Keiser launched an externship program for aspiring rural practice owners, "Unbridled - An Externship Experience: Inspiring the Next Generation of Rural Veterinary Practice Owners." Objectives include: Sharing 'best practices' for rural practice sustainability, viability and profitability Addressing wellbeing through equipping aspiring owners with the tools, knowledge and resources Exploring the role of successful practice ownership in creating financial security Formulating strategies to capitalize on changing client demographics and behavior Preparing for competition in the changing landscape of practice ownership The experience culminated in a week-long on-site practice assessment and development of recommendations. Pre- and post-surveys reflect improved knowledge and high value. Student travel and lodging were provided through donor funds. Ms. Andrews developed educational seminars, "Financial Considerations for the Rural Veterinarian", that will be offered as one-hour sessions beginning in the Fall of 2019. Aim 1b: Dr. Maura Velazquez-Castillo, Professor, and Ms. Shannon Zeller, Instructor, CSU Department of Languages, Literature and Cultures; Dr. Noa Roman-Muniz, Associate Professor, CSU Department of Animal Sciences and Extension Dairy Specialist, and VSGP Coordinator The first of four "Spanish for Rural Veterinarians" online modules was offered in the Spring of 2019. The 25 students enrolled provided overall positive feedback regarding preparedness to use the skills learned. Course designers responded to suggestions for improvement. The second module is being offered currently, as a Fall 2019 elective. The two credit in-class elective "Introduction to Spanish for Veterinarians" was offered for the first time in the Fall of 2018, and is currently offered as a Fall 2019 elective. Participants will be optimally prepared to engage in the "Spanish for Rural Veterinarians" series and in the "Spanish for Veterinarians" third year practicum. The 25 enrollees provided positive feedback regarding both content and delivery. Course designers addressed suggestions for improvement. The "Spanish for Veterinarians" 20-hour practicum offered to 3rd year students is very popular, reaching maximum enrollment each time it is offered. An additional offering was created for the Spring of 2020 that will focus on livestock-specific vocabulary and dialogue. Aim 1c: Dr. Noa Roman-Muniz, Associate Professor, CSU Department of Animal Sciences and Extension Dairy Specialist, and VSGP Coordinator Four externship sites have been identified with the assistance of faculty members in the Department of Animal Sciences. The Colorado State Veterinarian has agreed to recruit additional collaborators through their mailing list. Dr. Melinda Frye has developed a site questionnaire to characterize pertinent details so that opportunities will be consistently and reliably documented within a searchable site. Recognizing that students benefit from structured mentorship and vetted experiential opportunities, Dr. Frye worked with CVMBS faculty to develop the "DVM Pathways Program", with one pathway being "Corporate Livestock Medicine" and another being "Population Health" (e.g. government, international, public health, epidemiology). Mentors are currently in place within each pathway, charged with populating the site with externship opportunities (using the aforementioned site questionnaire) and providing informational sessions for students. The program will be fully functional and searchable by students in the Spring of 2020. Aim 1d: Dr. Sangeeta Rao, Assistant Professor, CSU Department of Clinical Sciences A new module on "Foodborne Outbreak Investigation" was delivered by Dr. Rao in the Fall of 2018 in the course Veterinary Preventive Medicine. An exercise entitled "Calf Mortality on a Northern Colorado Ranch" was delivered to students enrolled in the course Bovine Herd Medicine in Spring of 2019. Post-module surveys reflected overall value of the exercises and provided ideas for improvement. Aims 2a, 2b: Dr. Melinda Frye, CSU Associate Dean for Veterinary Academic and Student Affairs and VSGP Principal Investigator; Dr. Mark Deutchman, Director of Rural Track Program, University of Colorado School of Medicine One DVM student indicated intent to participate in the Interdisciplinary Rural Immersion Program but ultimately did not participate due to scheduling conflicts. In discussing this disappointing outcome with students, Dr. Frye concluded that notifying students earlier, highlighting public health components, and emphasizing the relevance of the experience outside of Colorado are likely to heighten DVM student interest. Collaborative seminars involving CSU DVM and University of Colorado Rural Medicine programs included a Fall 2018 discussion of the opioid crisis, and a Spring 2019 presentation on "bites and stings". Aim 2c: Dr. Noa Roman-Muniz, Associate Professor, CSU Department of Animal Sciences and Extension Dairy Specialist, and VSGP Coordinator An external online version of "Spanish for Rural Veterinarians" is under development. The MOU with CSU Online was finalized, and Ms. Zeller is currently working on course design. Dr. Roman-Muniz continues to partner with CSU Online, faculty within the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (CVMBS), faculty within the College of Agricultural Sciences, and Mr. Keiser to prioritize continuing education modules on livestock nutrition and practice management. Both experts are prepared to proceed pending CVMBS-CSU Online MOU finalization. The first offering will not be available in the Fall of 2019 as predicted, due to the unexpected death of a faculty member who was the sole swine expert and the primary CVMBS contributor to this aim. Aim 2d: Dr. Laurie Fonken, DVM Counselor and Wellness Coordinator In the Fall of 2018 Dr. Fonken hosted a seminar featuring representatives from the Colorado Rural Health Centers (CRHC), a nonprofit aimed at enhancing rural healthcare services. Students learned about the state of rural healthcare in Colorado, current issues facing health professionals in rural areas, and resources and initiatives relevant to those who serve rural communities. Feedback from the 28 student participants reflected value of the session. In the Spring of 2019 Dr. Fonken coordinated a 4-hour session with the Health District of Northern Larimer County entitled "Mental Health First Aid" for rural-oriented students, introducing participants to risk factors and warning signs of developing mental illness. Participants learned effective approaches to acute mental health crises and connecting individuals to appropriate resources. The 25 attendees provided feedback reflecting skill attainment and overall value. This will be offered again in the Spring of 2020. Also in Spring of 2019, in partnership with CSU Extensions and Larimer County, Dr. Fonken offered a 90-minute presentation on "Living Mindfully", an experiential session to introduce students to fundamental mindfulness principles and practices. Eight students attended this evening presentation. At each student interface, attendees are provided resources regarding the aforementioned entities, mental health providers, and crisis management.
Publications
- Type:
Other
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
A Holistic Approach to Enhancing the Rural Veterinary Population
Scientia (publication pending)
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Progress 09/01/17 to 08/31/18
Outputs
Target Audience:Individuals impacted by project activities include CSU DVM students, University of Colorado Rural Track medical students, Colorado rural community members,Colorado veterinarians, livestock producer associations, individual livestock producers and their employees. Changes/Problems: CJ left the university in March of 2018. As of August 27th 2018, Ms. Kayla Andrews is serving as the DVM Financial Education Specialist. Ms. Andrews will continue the integrated program of core curricular offerings and individual student advising, and will consider how best to actualize financial education targeted to students intending to serve as FSVs in the upcoming year. As student researchers progress in the program and have less time to devote to the project, new student researchers are identified. After the aforementioned informational sessions, 1st, 2nd and 3rd year DVM students are invited to apply for open student researcher posts. For the upcoming year, two student openings exist and it is anticipated that they will be filled in the Fall of 2018. Practitioner participation in the financial survey was less robust than anticipated, with only 11 participants to date. Though email communications were conveyed, follow up was insufficient due to personnel changes. A new student has been identified to champion this effort, and there will be greater oversight by SK. Additionally, it is anticipated that the collaborations noted in Aim 1a will allow more targeted and broader outreach, and thus improved participation. This same survey is being used to identify mentors and establish externship sites, so these activities will also facilitate actualization of Aim 1c. The development of DVM curricular and online continuing education offerings has been delayed due to personnel changes and unanticipated administrative challenges. Regarding the latter, options and resources within CSU Online are now clearly established, and content experts have been identified. The revised timelines proposed in Aims 1b and 2c will still permit outcomes assessment within the project timeline. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? In addition to the aforementioned activities, the project continues to provide opportunities to the DVM student researchers directly involved in the project in the areas of needs assessment, curricular design, research involving human subjects, outcomes assessment, interviewing, interdisciplinary collaboration, and workshop development. DVM students continue to directly interface with veterinarians, veterinary associations, medical school faculty and students, livestock producers and their employees. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? The Spanish language training orchestrated by MV and SZ was broadcast through local and national media organizations, including Harvest Public Radio, National Public Radio, the Denver Post, and the Fort Collins Coloradoan. As a result, interest in Spanish language training by veterinary students and practitioners has greatly increased as evidenced by inquiries about online course enrollment, and an invitation to speak to DVM students at another university. Additionally, MV and SZ described their program as speakers at the 2017 American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges Annual Conference in Washington, D.C. NR has shared project goals and accomplishments with undergraduate students in the CSU Department of Animal Sciences and livestock producer groups. Communication has occurred formally and informally through on-campus lectures, off-campus presentations at state livestock producer conferences (e.g. Dairy Day at the Colorado Farm Show), and regional planning meetings (e.g. the Western Dairy Management Conference). Annually, key personnel conduct an informational session open to all DVM students. This session outlines the VSGP by project area, and provides information regarding student participation in VSGP activities as well as opportunities to serve as a student researcher. NR and MF describe the VSGP as they interface with undergraduate students intending to enter the CSU DVM program. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Aim 1a Improve survey participation to inform program offerings (see "Changes/Problems") Finalize financial and business education offerings with Ms. Kayla Andrews now in place as DVM Financial Education Specialist Evaluate outcomes of Spring 2019 externship Aim 1b Evaluate outcomes of Spring 2019 module Partner with CSU Online to adapt 1st and 2nd module for external enrollment Aim 1c More strategically target individuals who may serve as mentors or providers of externship experiences through resources from regional veterinary associations and producer groups, to create a robust catalog of externship sites by Spring 2019 Aim 1d In the context of the evolving livestock curriculum, integrate an additional advanced herd analytics and public health exercise into the core livestock curriculum. Aims 2a/2b Continue current work Conduct one community health outreach event featuring both veterinary and medical services Aim 2c Support partnerships between five content experts and CSU Online to develop initial online continuing education offering(s) by Fall 2019 Aim 2d Complete four three-hour interactive seminar sessions, deliver two Create bank of mental health and well-being resources for DVM students and FSVs Create alumni survey and mechanism for tracking and dissemination, in preparation for distribution to members of the Class of 2019
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Aim 1a: Mr. Stith Keiser, Blue Heron Consulting; Mr. Chad Jones, CSU DVM Financial Education Specialist A financial survey instrument was made available online to regional veterinarians to further inform the financial education curriculum. Also, phone interviews with rural practice owners are in progress to identify concerns, strategies, and trends. To optimize practitioner participation, the team is collaborating with the Colorado State Veterinarian's Office and livestock associations to improve distribution. Survey data will be analyzed in the Fall of 2018. In the Spring of 2018, SK included rural business planning and financial management in the core 3rd year course Practice Management and Professional Development, which included analysis of financial statements from rural practices. Additionally, SK created a practice management externship for 4th year DVM students with rural interests. This 10-day experience will be conducted in partnership with regional practitioners under the supervision of SK and Clinical Sciences Department Head and DVM-MBA Dr. Wayne Jensen. The first externship will be offered in the Spring of 2019. Additional Information A description of the unique CSU DVM Financial Education Program has been accepted for publication as a "Best Practices" article in the Journal of Veterinary Medical Education. Members of the CSU CVMBS led a successful effort to create the Veterinary Education Loan Repayment Program for FSVs, signed into law in June of 2017. Dr. Melinda Frye serves on the governor-appointed council to manage the program. Aim 1b: Dr. Maura Velazquez-Castillo, Professor, and Ms. Shannon Zeller, Instructor, CSU Department of Languages, Literature and Cultures; Dr. Noa Roman-Muniz, Associate Professor, CSU Department of Animal Sciences and Extension Dairy Specialist, and VSGP Coordinator Spanish language and cross-cultural needs of practitioners, farm/ranch operators, and workers were identified through eight on-site interviews conducted by MV and SZ. The qualitative data was used to develop four task-based, one-credit, sequential online modules. Courses will be offered to DVM students at no charge, with the 1stand 3rdcourses offered in spring semesters and the 2ndand 4th courses offered in fall semesters.The program launch was delayed by one semester as proposals were routed to the University Curriculum Committee, with a planned start date of Spring 2019. These courses will be adapted for online delivery to an outside audience in collaboration with CSU Online. SZ and Dr. Danielle Straatmann, Director of Veterinary International Student Experiences, are also offering a two-credit elective course to DVM students this Fall 2018 entitled "Introduction to Spanish for Veterinarians". Finally, a one-credit "Spanish for Veterinarians" 20-hour practicum was well-received by DVM students and thus has been offered twice annually since the Fall of 2016. Collectively, CSU DVM students may choose to participate in up to seven credits of Spanish language training. Aim 1c: Dr. Noa Roman-Muniz, Associate Professor, CSU Department of Animal Sciences and Extension Dairy Specialist, and VSGP Coordinator Work continues to identify collaborators interested in serving as mentors and/or providing externship sites. Partners are identified through direct contact with rural practitioners and survey (see Aim 1a) responses, both with the assistance of regional veterinary associations. Externship opportunities are being cataloged and will be available online to students starting in the Spring of 2019. Aim 1d: Dr. Sangeeta Rao, Assistant Professor, CSU Department of Clinical Sciences After identifying curriculum gaps in the areas of epidemiology and population analytics in partnership with bovine herd management faculty and DVM students, SR designed the first scenario-based exercise for 3rd year students entitled "Calf mortality on a northern Colorado ranch". The offering is under final review by livestock faculty, with planned implementation in the Spring of 2019 within the core livestock course Bovine Herd Health Medicine. Additional Information As part of a larger effort to identify core curriculum content for the rural practitioners of 2018 and beyond, a seven-member external review panel was convened. The resultant April 2018 report and DVM student feedback are informing faculty hires and programmatic changes aimed at developing a robust education in contemporary livestock primary care. Aim 2a: Dr. Melinda Frye, CSU Associate Dean for Veterinary Academic and Student Affairs and VSGP Principal Investigator; Dr. Mark Deutchman, Director of Rural Track Program, University of Colorado School of Medicine In the summer of 2018, for the 3rd consecutive year, two DVM students participated in the Interdisciplinary Rural Immersion Program. MF solicited student feedback which included a desire for more structured interface with community veterinarians and more robust orientation of human health focused students on the role of veterinarians in rural health. This feedback was shared with MD with planned improvements in the Summer of 2019. Collaborative seminars involving the CSU DVM and the University of Colorado Rural Medicine Programs continue; the Fall 2017 seminar focused on zoonotic disease while the Spring 2018 seminar featured State of Colorado Public Health Veterinarian Dr. Jennifer House. The University of Colorado and CSU have initiated efforts to bring rural track medical students to the CSU campus for preclinical training. At that time, opportunities for student exchange (e.g. DVM students participating in allied health externships) will increase. Aim 2c: Dr. Noa Roman-Muniz, Associate Professor, CSU Department of Animal Sciences and Extension Dairy Specialist, and VSGP Coordinator NR is working with CSU Online to establish procedures for continuing education module development, and has identified five instructors to design offerings on the topics of well-being, small animal medicine for the large animal practitioner, swine medicine, and basic equine neonatal and urgent care. The first module will be offered in the Fall of 2019. Aim 2d: Dr. Laurie Fonken, DVM Counselor and Wellness Coordinator LF presented a seminar on mental health and wellbeing in rural communities to DVM students in March 2018. Also in the spring of 2018, LF organized a panel of seven veterinary practitioners who shared successes and challenges in maintaining health and wellbeing, open to all DVM students. LF is currently developing a three-hour "Mental Health First Aid" workshop for DVM students to be offered in the Spring of 2019. In addition, LF has prepared a three-hour session entitled "Living Between the Lines: Life, Work, and Wellbeing in Rural Practice", the first of the proposed interactive seminar sessions, scheduled for the Fall of 2018. Additional sessions will include Colorado Rural Health Centers and a representative from the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) who has expertise in suicide in rural communities. LF has engaged providers of inter-professional health care services such as the Colorado Rural Health Center and WICHE Mental Health Programs, organizations dedicated to addressing mental health issues and improving services in the West and beyond. In collaboration with these entities LF is creating curricular content and a resource bank for future FSVs, and participating in discussions aimed at improving support for rural health care providers. LF has met with staff from Colorado Crisis Services to identify mental health resources in rural communities and strategies for facilitating FSV access. LF will work with Program Effectiveness Manager Ms. Jamie Fouty to devise a mechanism whereby future FSVs are identified while students, then tracked post graduation, in preparation for alumni survey dissemination beginning with the Class of 2019.
Publications
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Progress 09/01/16 to 08/31/17
Outputs
Target Audience:Individuals impacted by project activities include CSUDVM students, Colorado veterinarians, livestock producer associations, individual livestock producers and their employees. Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?In addition tothe educational opportunites discussed above,the project has provided opportunities to the seven aforementionedstudents directly involved in thecreation of the needs assessment tool. These students have learned about research involving human subjects, and participated in a training session onconducting interviews. Additionally, students are directly interactingwith veterinarians, livestock producers and their employees. These interactionsprovidevaluable insights regarding skills critical to the success of a rural veterinary practice, included but not limited to language andcommunication competencies. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?
Nothing Reported
What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?The data gathered will facilitatecontinued development ofcourse offerings to DVM students as well as online course opportunities for veterinarians. We will evaluate these offerings to assess effectiveness and modify as needed.The databasewill allow development of robust externship opportunities for future rural veterinary professionals.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
The VSGP Coordinator is Dr. Noa Roman-Muniz, DVM, MS, an Associate Professor in the Department of Animal Sciences within the College of Agricultural Sciences. Dr. Roman-Muniz conducts research in livestock health and well-being, dairy work training, labor management, and human health and safety on livestock operations. The appointment of Dr. Roman-Muniz to Project Coordinator reflects a robust collaborative relationship between the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences and the College of Agricultural Sciences. This important partnership will serve to strengthen community relations and broaden student opportunities. Additionally, seven DVM student researchers were hired via a competitive process. Students were aligned with areas of interest (e.g. population analytics, wellness, Spanish language instruction). Students work alongside faculty/staff mentors and community partners to actualize program aims. Student researchers and faculty and staff mentors conduct an informational meeting with all interested DVM students annually to provide information regarding VSGP initiatives and to encourage participation in program offerings. To identify priorities within rural communities, a needs assessment tool was developed and is currently being implemented by student researchers with oversight from Dr. Roman-Muniz; Stith Keiser, CEO of Blue Heron Consulting; Maura Velazquez-Castillo, Professor in Languages, Literatures and Cultures; Shannon Zeller, Instructor in Languages, Literatures and Cultures; and Dr. Laurie Fonken, DVM Counselor and Wellness Coordinator. The following Aims have been accomplished: Aim 1a: Improve economic success through education in financial and practice management that is targeted to rural veterinary practitioners. Educational interventions for DVM students are currently in development and will be facilitated by Stith Keiserstarting in the spring semester of 2018. The interventions will focus on business planning and financial management specific to rural practice. Aim 1b: Enhance opportunities for effective training of animal health workers through task based Spanish language instruction. Languages, Literatures and Cultures faculty membersMaura Velazquez-Castillo and Shannon Zeller currently offer online courses on Spanish for students interested in livestock handling and health. Additionally, they are creating a series of modules specifically designed to address the needs of DVM students interested in rural medicine to facilitate effective communication with multicultural populations. The first of these modules will be offered in thefall semester of 2018. Aim 1c: Broaden industry and clinical knowledge base through mentored experiential learning. Current outreach efforts and database constructionserve as the foundation for this aim. Relationships with future mentors are in developmentandopportunities for experiential learning are being identified. Aim 1d: Improve scientific and analytical ability to detect problems and evaluate interventions in herd and public health Dr. Sangeeta Rao is currently developing educational offerings in epidemiology and population analytics. These offerings will be delivered throughout the curriculum and in a variety of formats, including but not limited to in-person lectures and discussions, and online modules. Aim 2a: Strengthen community integration and knowledge of rural societies through DVM student participation in the Interdisciplinary Rural Immersion Program, andAim 2b: Develop partnerships between future rural FSVs and allied health students through the Interdisciplinary Rural Immersion Program, student exchange and interdisciplinary student seminars. In collaboration withDr. Mark Deutchman,Director of the University of Colorado Medical School Rural Track, Dr. Melinda Frye, Associate Dean for Veterinary Academic and Student Affairs,hasfacilitated DVM student participation in the Interdisciplinary Rural Immersion Program. Two CSU DVM students participated last summer and studentsponsorship will continue on a yearly basis. Individualswithin the CSUDVM programhave partnered with those in the University of Colorado Rural Medicine Program to coordinate exchange opportunities and seminars including both medical and veterinary medicine students interested in ruralmedicine. Two seminars have been conducted to date andone seminar/exchange opportunity per semester is planned forthe future. Finally, in the fall of 2017, medical and veterinary students and faculty partnered to conducta combined human and animal health clinic aimed at individuals in underserved communities in Denver. Aim 2c: Improve professional satisfaction through allied health collaborations and greater accessibility to continuing education targeted to rural FSVs. Online offerings through CSU Online are currently in development. The offerings will serve as continuing educational opportunities for rural veterinarians, aimed atpromotingeffectiveness and sustainability of rural practices. Aim 2d: Reduce the incidence of depression and improve well-being through wellness education and post-graduation tracking and support. Data acquired through interviews and surveys, together with literature reviews and direct communication with support organizations, arebeing utilized to design educational opportunities for DVM students. These offerings will be initiatedin the spring semester of 2018. It is anticipated thattogether with activities detailed in Aims 2a-2c, these educational offerings willenhance emotional well-being and equip rural veterinarians to manage the challenges of rural practice.
Publications
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