Veterinarians are great at what they do—caring for animals. However, some veterinarians who also own their own practices lack the desire or business acumen to deal with the day-to-day administrative tasks necessary to run a successful practice. This is where veterinary practice managers come in. Veterinary practice managers provide business management services to veterinary practice owners. They ensure that a veterinary practice’s daily operations run smoothly, allowing veterinarians to focus on practicing medicine. In this article, we discuss the important role that veterinary practice managers play in the veterinary industry.
Veterinary Practice Manager Duties
Veterinary practice managers perform several important duties, including:
- Patient medical records oversight
- Financial reporting
- Client service and relations
- Community involvement
- Staff management
Veterinary Practice Manager Salary
Several factors can affect the salary of a veterinary practice manager, including the size of the practice, the number of staff members managed the manager’s job responsibilities, the manager’s level of experience, and the location of the practice. In 2019, veterinary practice managers earned the following annual salaries:
- Top 10% veterinary practice manager annual salary: $66,000
- Median veterinary practice manager annual salary: $47,000
- Bottom 10% veterinary practice manager annual salary: $35,000
Veterinary Practice Manager Education, Training, and Certification
A college degree isn’t required to be a veterinary practice manager. However, a bachelor’s degree or a background in business management is useful for those looking to enter the profession. In addition, veterinary practice managers may benefit from various certification and training programs designed specifically for this career path. For example, the Certified Veterinary Practice Manager designation is highly regarded in the industry and may give aspiring veterinary practice managers an edge in the hiring process.
Veterinary Practice Manager Skills
To be a successful veterinary practice manager, it is necessary to possess or develop the following skills:
- Organization skills: Management of any kind requires superior organization skills. The veterinary industry is no different. Therefore, veterinary practice managers must be highly organized.
- Leadership skills: Another important trait that veterinary practice managers must possess is the ability to lead others. Not only does this include directing employees, but it also involves motivating them and helping them grow personally and professionally.
- Communication skills: Most of a veterinary practice manager’s day is spent dealing with other people, so it is essential for managers to have excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Contact our Experienced Veterinary Attorneys
If you are a veterinary practice owner, you need an experienced veterinary attorney in your corner. At Mahan Law, our knowledgeable veterinary professionals know what it takes to succeed in the veterinary industry. Whether you need assistance with a legal dispute, or you simply want to improve the performance of your practice, Mahan Law is here for you. When you come to us for help, our experienced veterinary attorneys will strive to ensure that your professional and personal goals are achieved. Please contact us today to schedule a free consultation.