Young practitioners membership evaluation: A qualitative exploration

Abstract

 The overarching objectives for this research were to explore the perceptions of newly minted bovine veterinarians regarding the American Association of Bovine Practitioners (the Associa­tion), determine its salient features and benefits, and ascertain if the Association has a non-renewal issue with this population.

This was the first investigation of this sort conducted by the As­sociation with this audience regarding these issues – the area in question was basically unexplored. The information previously available was mostly anecdotal, therefore In-Depth Interviews (IDIs), a qualitative research methodology was employed. A total of 19 IDIs were conducted with bovine veterinarians who had practiced for less than 5 years and had been a member of the American Association of Bovine Practitioners. Thirteen in­dividuals were current members, while 6 respondents were no longer members.

Although there were a number of suggestions for improvement, all respondents pointed out the many positive attributes of AABP and would recommend membership.