Congratulations to the Newest ACVPM Diplomates

August 9, 2006 — Tracy Ann Raef

Drs. Locke Karriker and Alex Ramirez successfully completed the requirements for Diplomate status in the American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine. Forty-three veterinarians took the certification examination in June 2006, of which 23 passed. Drs. Karriker and Ramirez are the only swine veterinarians who received ACVPM diplomate status this year. Both passed the examination on their first attempt!

"I am excited to have achieved diplomate status," said Dr. Ramirez, veterinary specialist, at Iowa State University's College of Veterinary Medicine. "This recognition helps solidify my commitment to swine production medicine and public health."

The two-day examination focused on five topics: Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Food Safety, Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Environmental Health and Toxicology, and Public Administration and Health Education. The examination is one of several requirements necessary to attain diplomate status. Other requirements include professional practice experience and formal educational activities.

"After completing the requirements for the specialty board, we have a better understanding of the potential impact of food supply veterinary medicine on human health and as a result and we are better prepared to address veterinary issues that span the entire pork production chain from farm to consumer," said Dr. Karriker, assistant professor of production animal medicine at Iowa State's College of Veterinary Medicine. "In a consolidating, integrating, globalizing arena like swine practice, there are many places developing to apply these new skills."

Congratulations!