CDFA SEEKS INPUT ON REGIONAL VETERINARY SHORTAGES IN CALIFORNIA TO INFORM USDA PROGRAM ATTEMPTING TO REMEDY THEM

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Sacramento, October 30, 2020 - CDFA’s Antimicrobial Use and Stewardship program is seeking input from livestock sectors to identify gaps in large animal veterinary services in California in order to inform the USDA’s National Institute for Food and Agriculture (NIFA), which is currently accepting nominations for the
2020/2021 Veterinary Medicine LoanRepayment Program (VMLRP). The VMLRP provides incentives for veterinarians to practice in areas currently without available veterinary expertise. For veterinary awardees who are willing to commit to at least 3 years of service in a selected practice area, NIFA may provide assistance up to $25,000 per year against veterinary education loan debts.
 
This is a 3-step process: 1) the State Veterinarian is responsible for nominating California shortage areas to NIFA, many of which can be multi-county, 2) NIFA is then responsible for designating areas where veterinarians may apply across the US, and 3) veterinarians then submit an application to be selected by the national committee.
 
In the past year, thanks to our valued agricultural industry representatives, veterinary stakeholders, and other constituents., we have made nominations for eight positions in California. To see past nominations, click here.
 
These nominations may be used to attract a new veterinarian into an area of need, to encourage redirection of an existing veterinarian practicing in the area, or even to retain veterinary services in an area. CDFA facilitates the submission of California’s nominees by the State Veterinarian to a NIFA committee, which ultimately designates shortage regions based on a national needs assessment. To identify areas for nomination, CDFA welcomes suggestions from livestock producers, veterinarians, veterinary clinics, or any other stakeholders.
 
There are 3 categories of nominations for consideration:
• Category I is for a “full-time” need for food/large animal shortages.
• Category II is focused on rural areas where food animal practice is likely to be only a portion of one’s practice. To qualify for Category II, the veterinarian must commit a minimum of 30% of their practice to food animals, proof of which must be submitted.
• Category III is intended for veterinarians in public service, who work in the public practice sphere.
 
If your area is currently experiencing a large animal veterinary shortage, please contact CDFA_AUS@CDFA.CA.GOV or fill out this informational survey to help you assess your regional needs. Please reach out by November 4, 2020 in order to discuss designating an area.
 

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