veterinary specialist

How does postgraduate specialist training work?

The basis is the postgraduate training regulation of the relevant state veterinary chamber. This sets out which fields exist, how long training lasts, which activities and case numbers must be evidenced, and how the examination is conducted. Typically around four years are required on a full-time basis at a recognised training institution under the supervision of an authorised veterinarian; part-time arrangements and training in one's own practice extend the period accordingly. At the end there is an examination before a chamber committee. Those who pass may use the title, for example "Fachtierarzt für Kleintiere" (veterinary specialist in small animals). It rarely takes less than five years after licensure before that point, because case numbers, rotations, and required courses take time, and a training post first has to be found.

Where do the differences between chambers lie?

Depending on the chamber, around 20 to 40 specialist designations are available, together with additional designations of lesser scope, such as equine ophthalmology. The requirements are not identical. In Rhineland-Palatinate, for small animals or equines, either a dissertation and one publication, or alternatively three scientific publications, are required, while other chambers manage without a publication requirement depending on the field. Anyone who changes state during specialist training should ideally obtain written confirmation in advance of what the new chamber will recognise.

What does this mean for graduates from EU countries abroad?

Specialist training requires the German veterinary licence (Approbation) or at least a practice permit. § 11(2) of the Federal Veterinary Act makes provision for this: the temporary practice permit may be extended beyond the otherwise applicable total duration of four years if a veterinary specialist training programme begun without delay could not be completed in time for reasons beyond the person's control, but by no more than three years. Those who studied in Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, or Croatia should clarify early with the relevant chamber which periods spent abroad and which training institutions will be recognised.

Distinction

The veterinary specialist title is different from the Diplomate title of a European specialist college; both can coexist. And it is not a requirement for setting up in practice: every licensed veterinarian may practise without a specialist designation.