June 19, 2024

#124: So You Want To Sit The Membership Exams? Your Questions About ANZCVS Memberships Answered.

#124: So You Want To Sit The Membership Exams? Your Questions About ANZCVS Memberships Answered.

This episode dives deep into the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists (ANZCVS) membership exams, offering a comprehensive guide for veterinary professionals considering or preparing for the process. The conversation, which is made up from interviews with experienced specialists, recent candidates, and mentors, outlines the structure, purpose, and preparation strategies for these exams, particularly in the field of surgery. Topics include the registration process, study schedules, common challenges, and the value of mentorship and study groups. The guests also discuss the broader benefits of pursuing memberships, such as enhanced clinical knowledge, confidence, and professional recognition, as well as practical insights like balancing study with work and personal life. Designed to demystify the journey, this episode is a valuable resource for anyone aspiring to elevate their veterinary expertise through memberships.

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Season 1

If you clicked on this episode, then I’m guessing that you already know WHAT the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists membership exams are. Maybe you’re considering sitting them, or perhaps you’ve already put your hand up for 2025, but you still have so many questions. Like, how much time would I need to commit, how much study is required each week, HOW hard is it actually, WHAT do I need to study, and how do I set myself up for success? Should I do a course, how do I utilise me mentors, or my study group, and perhaps the most important question… WHY would I even put myself through it?!

This episode is made up of multiple conversations about surgery membership, and it will answer all of those questions and more. We talk to specialist surgeons Dr Chris Tan and Dr Mark Newman, as well as membership candidate (at the time of recording) Dr Stephen Mansour and recent successful membership candidate Dr Justin Ward. While the conversation focuses on surgery memberships, most of the information will be applicable to any of the specialties. 

If you need an on-the-go study aid for your surgery membership prep, or if you just want to take your surgery theoretical knowledge to the next level, check out our advanced surgery podcast at cutabove.supercast.com

Oh, and if you were just curious about what membership exams are: the ANZCS (Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists) membership exams are rigorous assessments designed to evaluate the clinical knowledge and expertise of veterinarians who want to level up in their field of interest. Anyone with a degree that is eligible for registration in Australia or New Zealand and with more than 3.5 years in practice can register to sit memberships. The exams serve as a benchmark for professional excellence, enabling successful candidates to attain membership in the College, thereby recognising their advanced competency in a specific area of veterinary science. 

Still interested? Then keep listening!

Topics and time stamps

04:29 Exam Structure and Requirements

08:28 The Importance of Pathophysiology

12:52 Personal Experiences and Motivations

16:54 Balancing Study and Life

17:36 The Value of Membership Certification

26:59 Marketability and Practical Skills

29:36 Preparing for Membership Exams

31:21 Time Management and Study Schedules

35:56 Mentorship and Study Groups

48:17 Essential Study Resources

55:44 Balancing Study and Personal Life

 

"Understanding ANZCVS Memberships: What You Need to Know"

The Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists (ANZCVS) offers membership exams for veterinarians who want to enhance their surgical knowledge and skills. These exams are a stepping stone towards becoming a registered specialist (Fellowship) and demonstrate a higher level of understanding in a specific veterinary field.
What are the ANZCVS Membership Exams?
  • The ANZCVS offers membership exams across various chapters, with each chapter setting its own exams.
  • The membership exam is a mid-tier level qualification and doesn't involve any practical component or logbook assessment.
  • It's primarily designed for vets in practice and serves as a means to improve surgical understanding and build a network of like-minded professionals.
Who is eligible to sit for the ANZCVS Membership Exams?
  • To be eligible, you need to be a qualified veterinarian for a minimum of three and a half years.
  • The application process involves submitting an intention to sit form and paying a fee, typically around $1,000-$2,000.
Exam Format:
  • The membership examination comprises two parts: a written exam and an oral exam.
  • The written exam consists of two papers, each lasting approximately two hours, covering pathophysiology and clinical case scenarios.
  • The oral exam involves answering clinical case scenarios in front of examiners.
Passing Requirements:
  • To pass, candidates need to achieve an overall average of 70%, with a minimum of 55% in each component (written and oral).
Why Pursue ANZCVS Memberships?
  • Enhanced Surgical Understanding: Studying for the exams significantly improves surgical knowledge and decision-making.
  • Professional Development: It demonstrates a commitment to professional growth and can enhance career opportunities.
  • Personal Satisfaction and Recognition: Achieving membership provides a sense of accomplishment and recognition within the veterinary community.
Preparing for the Exams:
  • Dedicated Study Time: Candidates should allocate approximately 6-8 hours per week for study, with increased intensity (around 20 hours) in the final six months.
  • Structured Study Plan and Timetable: Creating a detailed study schedule and sticking to it is crucial for success.
  • Mentorship: Seek guidance from a mentor who has previously sat for the exams.
  • Study Groups: Joining a study group provides support, motivation, and opportunities for knowledge sharing.
  • Resources and Materials: The primary resource is Tobias and Johnson's Veterinary Surgery Small Animal. Additional resources include anatomy textbooks, distance education courses, and online platforms like VIN.
  • Past Exam Papers: Familiarizing yourself with past papers helps to understand the exam format and depth of knowledge required.
Challenges and Support:
  • Pathophysiology: Many candidates find the pathophysiology component particularly challenging.
  • Maintaining Balance: Balancing study with work, family, and personal life is essential.
  • Support Network: A strong support network, including a mentor, study group, and understanding family and colleagues, plays a vital role in navigating the challenges.
Success Rates and Recognition:
  • Pass rates are estimated to be around 70-80%.
  • While the ANZCVS Membership doesn't guarantee a pay raise, it may improve marketability, attract potential employers, and enhance credibility as a surgical mentor.

 

"The Benefits of ANZCVS Memberships Beyond the Exam"

Pursuing ANZCVS memberships offers numerous benefits that extend far beyond simply passing the exam. These benefits can have a positive impact on a veterinarian's career, personal satisfaction, and overall approach to surgery.
Enhanced Understanding and Confidence: The rigorous study required for the membership exams significantly enhances a veterinarian's understanding of surgical principles, pathophysiology, and clinical decision-making. This deeper knowledge translates into increased confidence in surgical abilities and a more comprehensive approach to patient care. As Dr. Justin Ward explains, "This really just took my knowledge to the next level and has really just augmented my approach".
Improved Surgical Skills and Outcomes: While the membership exam doesn't assess practical skills directly, the enhanced theoretical understanding gained through studying forms a solid foundation for developing and refining surgical techniques. This can lead to improved surgical outcomes and better patient care. Dr. Stephen Manso highlights the importance of understanding the "why" behind surgical choices, stating that it leads to more satisfying work because "when the case goes well, you're like, I know why it went well. It wasn't just luck".
Career Advancement and Recognition: Though not a guarantee, ANZCVS membership can enhance career opportunities and marketability. It demonstrates a commitment to professional development and a higher level of surgical knowledge, making individuals more attractive to potential employers. Dr. Ward notes that practices with multiple membership holders may find it easier to attract staff as it suggests a culture of learning and a higher standard of care. Additionally, membership can open doors to teaching, consulting, or other specialised roles within the veterinary field.
Networking and Community Building: The process of preparing for and sitting the exams provides opportunities to connect with like-minded veterinarians who share a passion for surgery. Study groups, mentorship programs, and interactions with examiners and specialists foster a sense of community and provide valuable support networks. This can be particularly beneficial for those working in more isolated practices.
Personal Satisfaction and Motivation: Achieving ANZCVS membership provides a sense of personal accomplishment and professional recognition within the veterinary community. It represents a significant achievement that validates years of hard work and dedication. This boost in confidence and self-esteem can reinvigorate a veterinarian's passion for surgery and motivate them to continuously seek further knowledge and improvement. As Dr. Mark Newman observes, "It's a great feeling, a great achievement. When you get a certificate that says, you know, you have put in the hard yards and you've been recognized that you have a special interest in this topic and you know your stuff".