Veterinary practices rely on effective management to ensure smooth operations, deliver high-quality care, and provide exceptional client service. As the demand for skilled leadership in administrative and operational roles continues to grow, the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association (VHMA) has introduced the Certified Veterinary Office Manager (CVOM) certification. This new certification aims to recognize and elevate the vital contributions of those overseeing key clerical and administrative functions within veterinary practices.
What is CVOM?
The CVOM certification joins VHMA's established Certified Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM) certification as part of the association's valuable career development offerings for veterinary management professionals at all stages of their careers. While the CVPM is intended for those with more advanced experience and responsibilities in veterinary practice management, the CVOM certification is designed for emerging leaders in the field.
The role of the CVOM in veterinary practice
In veterinary practices, leadership extends across all facets of operation. The CVOM is designed for those specializing in clerical and administrative functions such as managing schedules, handling client inquiries, maintaining records, implementing hospital policies, and ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. Professionals with the CVOM can help practices become more efficient and effective by enhancing client satisfaction and reducing administrative bottlenecks, ultimately allowing the veterinary team to devote more time and energy to patient care.
By offering the CVOM certification, VHMA provides a pathway for managers to gain formal recognition for their experience and knowledge while fostering further professional growth.
CVOM certification requirements
The qualifications for the CVOM certification are:
- 1 year of management experience in select management duties.
- 2 letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to the candidate's management skills.
Candidates complete an application to qualify for the certification examination. Upon qualification and passing the examination, the CVOM certification is valid for 2 years. To recertify, certified professionals must complete 18 hours of continuing education and pay a renewal fee. This recertification process helps certified individuals stay updated on industry developments and best practices.
Benefits of the CVOM certification
The CVOM certification offers a variety of benefits to both individual professionals and the veterinary practices they serve.
Professional recognition
For management professionals, the CVOM formally recognizes their management experience and knowledge base. The CVOM certification can open doors to new career opportunities by helping to distinguish professionals in a competitive job market. Additionally, the certification may lead to higher job satisfaction and better compensation, as practices value the leadership and management skills it represents.
Networking opportunities
Upon certification, professionals join a national network of veterinary managers, offering ample opportunities for collaboration, professional development, and knowledge exchange. This network provides a platform for peer support, advice, and shares best practices within veterinary management.
Retention and satisfaction
For veterinary practices, certification can boost employees’ confidence and job satisfaction by enhancing their abilities and offering professional development opportunities, leading to a more motivated, productive workforce and reduced turnover rates.
Comparing the CVOM and CVPM
Both the CVOM and CVPM certifications highlight leadership and management expertise but serve managers with different experience, responsibilities, and expertise. The CVOM is designed for managers focused on clerical tasks and day-to-day operations, while the CVPM caters to a more experienced professional with an advanced knowledge base and more strategic responsibilities.
CVPM requires more extensive experience and education, including:
- 3 years of practice management experience in select management duties
- 18 college/university semester hours in management-related courses
- 48 hours of management-focused continuing education
- 4 letters of recommendation
This advanced certification reflects the broader responsibilities of overseeing an entire practice, including managing financial operations and staff and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. CVPM certification is intended for those with a comprehensive understanding of veterinary practice management and leadership.
To illustrate the difference, consider the distinction between a veterinary assistant and a credentialed veterinary technician. The CVOM is tailored for those focusing on clerical tasks, while the CVPM is aimed at individuals with a more expansive skill set and advanced experience in managing all aspects of a veterinary practice.
Career development in veterinary practices
As veterinary practices face an ever-evolving landscape, leadership at all levels is essential. The introduction of the CVOM reflects the growing recognition that effective management is crucial throughout the entire practice. Strong leadership helps navigate challenges and fosters a positive work environment where the team and patients thrive, ensuring better overall outcomes for everyone involved.
By offering the CVOM and CVPM certifications, VHMA provides a structured, accessible path for leaders and managers to be recognized for their experience, knowledge, and skills.
References
- What’s the Difference? Veterinary Hospital Manager Assocation. Published 2025. Accessed April 23, 2025. https://www.vhma.org/certificatesandcertification/officemanagervspracticemanager
