Furthermore, his comfort level increased in those subjects not closely related to veterinary medicine. As a result, his clients begin to view him as one not only delivering typically requested services, but as one who can offer a complete herd management program. A veterinarian who participates in an IRM team may see himself in a different role as compared to his regular practice. Instead of being called upon to solve a crisis, he now becomes a consultant and teacher. Preventative medicine, decision making and developing management plans is now required of him as an IRM team member.
Producers begin to recognize that their veterinarian can provide a complete management service.
Dr. Jack Walker, a veterinarian from Weiser, Idaho, has been involved with IRM teams for a number of years. My profession has long recognized that problems in production medicine cut across the boundaries of all individual disciplines. I need access to expert information in the other disciplines before I make the more informed, effective animal health decisions. Prior to IRM, I did not have access to experts in these other areas. With IRM, I am able to work directly with these other people in a structured program that defines each participants role in the management team.