Mentee Carolina Baquerizo, DVM, performing an aural hematoma repair with her other IndeVets mentor, Dr. Andrew Heller. Dr. Baquerizo is a 2024 Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine grad and the first mentee in the program. Photo courtesy Dr. Baquerizo Veterinarian staffing company IndeVets announced the launch of its General Practitioner Rotating Mentorship Program. The company states the program is the first of its kind in the industry, designed to give mentees hands-on experience by rotating through different hospitals and gaining exposure to a variety of clinical settings. Training under the guidance of at least one seasoned veterinarian mentor, mentees are exposed to the full spectrum of care – corporate, private, shelters, and specialties. After the six-month paid mentoring program ends, mentees continue to practice as full-time associates with IndeVets. Access to mentorship is the biggest priority for new graduates according to the American Veterinary Medical Association, and this program helps meet that need, IndeVet reports. Specialty shifts, such as surgery, dentistry, and ultrasound, are incorporated based on the mentee’s interests. Mentors receive training through the MentorVet Lift certification program to set them up for success. “Making the transition into clinical practice can be overwhelming for recent graduates. IndeVets recognizes the need for mentoring to provide a strong support system and help bridge the gap between theory and real-world application,” says Marisa Brunetti, VMD, and chief veterinary officer at IndeVets. “We are thrilled to launch the General Practitioner Rotating Mentorship Program because we believe it will give new doctors all the tools they need for a long and happy career in veterinary medicine.” In addition to spending 30 hours each week in clinic, mentees have a designated remote workday each week for professional development and receive access to additional support and resources. Veterinarians in the program spend time discussing journal articles with other doctors, earning continuing education certifications, and meeting with IndeVets’ in-house veterinary social worker. This dedicated support from the beginning of their careers empowers mentees to take an active role in prioritizing their well-being, both professionally and personally, states IndeVets, adding, it equips them with the skills, habits, and meaningful relationships needed to navigate challenges and avoid the common industry pitfalls of burnout and mental health struggles. “Mentorship is essential to build a good foundation. Being able to talk to my mentor about cases we saw that week is a great opportunity that is not usually possible in veterinary medicine,” notes Dr. Carolina Baquerizo. “I enjoy the unique program structure that allows me to keep learning even outside the clinic. I am working through the IndeVets General Practitioner Clinical Certification course which covers topics brought up at almost every clinic I visit.” IndeVets is currently enrolling new mentors and mentees across the country. Learn more or apply at https://indevets.com/mentorship-program/.
