Report outlines key factors driving Ohio’s veterinary shortage

The Ohio Department of Agriculture, The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, and Farm Journal Foundation today announced the release of a new report examining the growing shortage of rural and food-system veterinarians in Ohio and identifying potential pathways to strengthen the veterinary workforce. 

The report, Ohio Rural & Food Systems Veterinary Shortage Solutions, analyzes veterinarian demographics, workforce trends, educational pathways, and youth engagement programs to better understand the factors contributing to the shortage and inform future solutions.

The report is a starting point for the conversations and further work to identify the causes of the rural and food systems veterinarian shortage.

“Rural veterinarians are essential partners in protecting animal health, responding to disease threats, and helping ensure a safe and secure food supply,” said ODA Director Brian Baldridge. “This report confirms what many producers and veterinary professionals are already experiencing: demand is growing while a significant portion of our veterinary workforce is nearing retirement.… Continue reading