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HomeFarming NewsStaff shortages and burnout biggest challenges for vets
Catherina Cunnane
Catherina Cunnanehttps://www.thatsfarming.com/
Catherina Cunnane hails from a sixth-generation drystock and specialised pedigree suckler enterprise in Co. Mayo. She currently holds the positions of editor and general manager at That's Farming, having joined the firm during its start-up phase in 2015.
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Staff shortages and burnout biggest challenges for vets

Vets and vet practice owners have outlined how they believe the sector could cope with staff shortages.

In HLB Sheehan Quinn’s fifth annual report on veterinary practices, which the firm published on Tuesday, March 29th, 2022, respondents were asked to suggest actions the profession could take to address staff shortages.

Vet sector 

According to the results, just under 49% of the suggestions they put forward mentioned pay and conditions.

Meanwhile, 22% referenced vet school intake, while 6% of all respondents believe in career support.

Collaboration/scale, managing expectations and CPD/training both secured 5% each of the total vote.

Meanwhile, recruitment abroad and lay staff accounted for 3% each, while a mere 2% of respondents believe representation/lobbying are the answer to addressing staff shortages.

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Biggest challenges in the veterinary sector

Respondents were also asked about the biggest challenges facing the veterinary sector in Ireland right now.

Both practice owners and employees cited staff shortages (61%) as their main challenge.

9% said burnout, while working conditions are the biggest challenge for 6%, as are regulations.

3% referenced low fees, while a further 3% referred to rising costs, and 12% of respondents’ biggest challenge fell under ‘other’.

According to the report, one survey respondent referred to “no team, no money and the general public’s lack of understanding that veterinary care costs a lot”.

Attracting/retaining vet staff

The report also highlighted that a shortage of vets in Ireland has necessitated “significant” salary increases and benefits.

70% of practice owners, who participated in the survey, revealed that they are offering “attractive” salary/conditions to attract/retain staff.

A further 20% are offering mentoring/training, while the remainder answered ‘effective’ leadership.

Read more on this news article.

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