11 EVALUATION OF A CONTINUING EDUCATION PROGRAM FOR VETERINARIANS: OUTCOME ASSESSMENT OF APPLIED REPRODUCTIVE TECHNIQUES IN BEEF PRODUCTION

Abstract

Continuing education programs are an important tool to improve the service quality of veterinarians (Moore et al. 1996 JAVMA 209, 1086; Moore et al. 2004 JVME 31, 146). The effectiveness of a continuing education program (CEP) designed to enhance the flow of applied, scientific-based, reproductive techniques (in addition to nutrition, economy, and animal health) from educators (n = 21) to beef veterinarians (n = 400) was evaluated during a period of four years (2003 through 2007) in Argentina. Control of the estrous cycle, artificial insemination, pregnancy diagnosis, development of replacement heifers, record keeping systems, breeding soundness examination, and reproductive health practices were included in the analysis. The CEP included lectures and hands-on practice activities (100 h year^–1). Participants were evaluated prior to the enrollment (CON) in the CEP to determine reproductive weakness areas. The outcome assessment from educators to veterinarians (contents of the program and benefits for participants) of applied reproductive techniques was evaluated through a test of knowledge and a survey following the IACET guideline at the end of each academic year (TRT). Data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS (SAS Institute, Inc., Cary, NC, USA) in a cohort study. Prior to the enrollment, control of the estrous cycle, semen evaluation, and record keeping systems were found to be the major areas of weakness in CON participants. Participants agreed with the information provided in the program and they indicated that the contents learned were relevant (97 ± 3%) and applicable (92 ± 4%). Furthermore, the CEP met their expectations (97 ± 3%) and improved the quality of the service (94 ± 3%) of TRT participants. Development of replacement heifers, control of the estrous cycle, semen evaluation, record keeping systems, and reproductive health problems were indicated as the most important tools (>80%; P < 0.05) to improve beef production. Additionally, results of this evaluation did reveal new areas for improvement such as open communication channels between educators and practitioners, data management, and communication skills of participants, all of which may be necessary to increase the acceptance and impact of applied reproductive techniques by beef producers. In conclusion, effective professional CEP improved the quality service of participating veterinarians, adding new services and implementing new management strategies. For the CEP to truly be considered successful, the program must also reach the ultimate end user, the beef producers. Therefore, a detailed assessment of the real acceptance and impact of these applied reproductive techniques by beef producers is needed to improve our message delivery from educators to practitioners and beef producers.