Veterinary Technician Specialists: Perceptions and Experiences Related to VTS Credentials and Skill Utilization.

Abstract

Objective: To examine the motivations of veterinary technician specialists (VTSs) in pursuing advanced credentials, the impact of having their VTS credential(s), and their views surrounding the potential barriers to optimal utilization of VTS skill and knowledge.

Design: Electronic survey distributed via veterinary organizations, associations, and social media from December 2023 through May 2024.

Participants: A total of 577 veterinary technician and nurse specialists.

Setting and interventions: Online survey.

Measurement and main results: A total of 577 participants completed the survey. Factor analysis identified four items associated with reasons to become credentialed as a VTS (in descending order of importance): expanded responsibilities, personal growth, recognition/respect, and external influences. Five elements of potential change after earning the VTS credential were also identified (in descending order of prevalence): personal growth, professional recognition/respect, expanded responsibilities, elevated role, and career growth. A total of 76.4% of participants indicated that they had received a pay increase after obtaining the VTS credential; 77.4% reported the increase was ≤10%. A total of 84.2% of participants stated feeling that VTSs are underutilized in the workplace.

Conclusions: The prime motivator for participants to earn the VTS credential was to expand their role and responsibilities; however, many did not experience significant changes in responsibility or scope of clinical practice after receiving their credentials. Most participants felt that VTSs are underutilized, with a lack of role clarity and differentiation from non-VTS colleagues identified as the largest barrier. There is a clear need for better role clarification and an opportunity for education of both veterinary professionals and clients regarding the role, education, and training of VTSs. Although the majority of VTSs recommend the credential to others, it is unclear whether completion of the VTS leads to a commensurate expansion of responsibilities and improvement in compensation that increase the engagement, retention, and career satisfaction of these technicians/nurses.