Veterinary Medicine in Economic Transition

In a study with serious ramifications for the profession, Getz argues that there are too many veterinarians vis-a-vis the demand for those services and that this situation will continue over the next decade.

Forecasters had predicted that the growth in the number of pets, the affluence of pet owners and the emphasis on scientific methods in livestock and poultry farming would mean more veterinarians will be needed. Using basic economics and common statistical methods, "Veterinary Medicine in Economic Transition" offers original investigations of supply, demand, practice, geography, market, policy and schools of veterinary medicine.

Getz concludes that, because of excess governmental support, the nation has produced more veterinarians than needed and points out that income for those in private practice has not changed in real terms in the last 15 years.

He proposes solutions for higher education and the industry; similar analyses of other professions and institutions by Getz have been influential and well received.

This one will be valuable to educational planners, veterinary educators and administrators, and practising and potential veterinarians.