In 2012, UK and European vets will be able to sit Australian College of Veterinary Scientists Membership examinations in medicine of cats to demonstrate they have a high level of standing in the discipline.
The college will conduct the examination with International Society of Feline Medicine support. It has offered examinations of proficiency for more than 40 years and has offered species-specific examinations since its inception.
Its feline chapter conducts rigorous and searching examinations in feline medicine, at both Membership – MACVSc – and Fellowship – FCVSc – specialist levels.
The MACVSc examination is available to veterinarians with at least three and a half years of experience in clinical practice, and covers all facets of feline internal medicine, dermatology, ophthalmology, nutrition and behaviour. Although not a specialist examination, it is a qualification which distinguishes practitioners with particular interest in feline clinical sciences.
There is a well-documented subject guidelines study guide, with a reading list of recommended text books and journals. The examination consist of two two-hour written papers coveringbasic sciences and pathophysiology, and more clinical and practical aspects of Medicine of Cats, and a practical/oral examination of at least 45 minutes.
The written examinations will be held in June 2012, with the practical/oral examination about six weeks later. The written examinations will be available at locations throughout UK and Europe, while the practical/oral examinations will be conducted in Birmingham, UK. The examiners will be college Members and Fellows.
The MACVSc Feline Medicine marks the successful candidate as a clinician with greater than standard knowledge and understanding of feline clinical sciences. Such a credential may be a useful stepping stone to entering programs of advanced clinical training such as ACVSc Fellowship training.
A college spokesperson said 18 to 24 months of concerted self-directed study was required to confidently attempt Membership examinations. Although it was possible to prepare for the examinations alone, colleagues wishing to purse the MACVSc examination option may consider undertaking structured ongoing veterinary continuing education courses to help them prepare for the examination.
Participation in a structured seminar/course must not be a considered a prerequisite for sitting ACVSc examinations and must not be taken as assuming success at College examinations. For information about the Medicine of Cats Membership examinations, including eligibility criteria, contact the College office (admin@acvs.org.au).