President’s Message – October 2019

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Dr. Rachel Pollard, ACVR President repollard@ucdavis.edu

  • First and foremost, congratulations to the new ACVR and ACVR-RO diplomates!  At this time of year, I am always reminded of the relief and exaltation that came with the simple words ‘Congratulations, you passed’.  For many of the more seasoned radiologists out there, those words were delivered at Champions Bar at the O’Hare Marriot.  Oh, the good old days! With the new exam format, the results are delivered by a phone call but I suspect the relief that comes with these words is no less intense. A special THANK YOU is owed to the exam committee and particularly the examination directors Drs. Stephanie Nykamp, John Mattoon, Michael Kent and Lisa Forrest. In reference to the new computer-based ACVR certifying examination, the implementation and execution was a monumental task worthy of laudatory praise. Congratulations are also in order for the successful qualifying examination candidates.
  • Also noteworthy this month are the continued efforts of the In-Training Examination Committee. This joint effort between ACVR and ECVDI is moving forward to prepare mock examinations for residents as a low stakes self-assessment as they prepare for the qualifying examinations. The committee anticipates its first round of mock examinations to be available in Summer 2020. A parallel development involves the creation of an ACVR equivalent to RIVDI (Rounds In Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging). RIVDI is an ECVDI brainchild (developed by Dr. Allison Zwingenberger and championed by Dr. Xander Huizing) where diplomates prepare case material and deliver KCC remotely to residents using an online format. RIVDI sessions occur monthly and give residents the opportunity to work with other residents and diplomates from different backgrounds in a small group (remote) setting. This new training tool has proven wildly popular with ECVDI residents and diplomates alike. As such, ACVR intends to work closely with ECVDI to create a similar resident offering on a schedule that suits North American time zones. Stay tuned as more is coming!
  • I am looking forward to seeing many of you in Baltimore!  Don’t forget your Halloween costumes. Cheers!