Global veterinary CPD provider Improve International has launched an online Postgraduate Certificate (PgC) programme on Emergency Medicine and Surgery (EMS) to give vets the knowledge and confidence they need to deal with emergency situations. It is also offering a free taster “open session” on point-of-care ultrasound on Wednesday 22 September.
Launched in partnership with the International School of Veterinary Postgraduate Studies (ISVPS) and Harper Adams University, the 18-month modular EMS programme includes key emergency medical and surgical procedures based around the major organ systems.
It is led by Course Director Ludivine Boiron, MSC, DVM, DACVECC, DiplACVECC, MRCVS, an American specialist in veterinary emergency and critical care, and consists of 14 online modules, each containing nine interactive lessons and two case studies. Three optional practical face-to-face modules covering emergency ultrasound, surgical techniques and emergency procedures are also available to delegates.
As with Improve International’s other online learning programmes, modules are delivered using a range of high-quality learning techniques, including interactive online lessons supported by notes and videos, quizzes and a forum tutored by specialists, all hosted on a world-leading online learning management platform. This in-depth modular certificate programme offers an ideal follow-on for vets who have undertaken Improve International’s “Accelerated Emergency and Critical Care Programme”. The teaching will develop the core skills taught during the accelerated programme and will enable vets to become competent and confident providers of emergency care to their patients.
Ludivine Boiron explained: “Dealing with emergencies can fill veterinary surgeons with dread as they are often dealing with the unknown, while also facing the fact that their ‘in the moment’ decisions may mean the difference between life and death for their patient. We have designed this programme, working with experts in the field, to give delegates the confidence and skills they need to adopt an ‘emergency vet’ mindset and tackle these urgent cases with confidence.”
Charlotte French, head of curriculum and quality and UK country manager for Improve International, added: “The structure of this programme offers a new level of accessibility and convenience to our delegates while giving them unique features such as the opportunity to share their learning with colleagues from around the world. The materials are highly interactive and engaging and provide a great way to gain knowledge in emergency procedures which can be applied directly to practice.”
To introduce the programme, Improve International is hosting a free CPD taster session during which Ludivine will discuss point-of-care ultrasound which can revolutionise the care of emergency patients. The open session will also showcase the learning experience offered by Improve International, which has been created by experts in digital education. You can register for the session .
The full EMS programme, which has been submitted to RACE for approval, can also be undertaken as an attendance course. It offers a route to achieve academic qualifications: the General Practitioner Certificate (GPCert) awarded by ISVPS and the Postgraduate Certificate (PgC), awarded by Harper Adams University. Gaining a PgC enables delegates to apply to the RCVS for Advanced Practitioner status in the subject.
In addition to EMS, Improve International offers the following online PgC programmes:
- Cardiology
- Exotic Animal Practice
- Feline Practice
- Ophthalmology
- Small Animal Medicine
- Small Animal Surgery
For further information on the Emergency Medicine and Surgery programme, visit the course page on the Improve International website.