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What is the ACVIM?

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE ACVIM AND SPECIALTY VETERINARY CARE

What is the ACVIM?

The American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of animals and people through education, training and certification of specialists in veterinary internal medicine, discovery and dissemination of new medical knowledge, and increasing public awareness of advances in veterinary medical care.

The ACVIM is the international certifying organization for veterinary specialists in cardiology, large animal internal medicine, neurology, oncology, and small animal internal medicine.

Who are ACVIM members?

ACVIM has more than 1,800 active members, called ACVIM Diplomates, who are Board-certified Veterinary Specialists. ACVIM Diplomates treat many different species, ranging from dogs and cats to horses and cattle.

What is a Veterinary Specialist? How are they different from a family veterinarian?

In addition to completing undergraduate training and four years of veterinary school, Board-certified Veterinary Specialists are similar to their human medical counterparts in that they have completed an internship and residency in their specialized field (an additional 3-5 years training). In addition to this extensive training, a Board-certified Veterinary Specialist must pass rigorous examinations to achieve Board certification from the ACVIM. Specialists bring a greater understanding in the area of internal medicine, cardiology, oncology, or neurology, and have a greater knowledge of the unusual, the uncommon, or rare in both large and small animals.

ACVIM Media Contact

Jenn Armbruster
ACVIM Communications & Media Relations Manager
303-231-9933 phone
800-245-9081 (US and Canada)
303-231-0880 fax
Jennifer@ACVIM.org