5 Questions for a Epidemiology Specialist

Rachael Kreisler, VMD, MSCE, DACVPM (Epidemiology)

Rachael Kreisler, VMD, MSCE, DACVPM (Epidemiology), is associate professor of Shelter Medicine and Epidemiology at Midwestern University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Kreisler is the founder and editor-in-chief of the Journal of Shelter Medicine and Community Animal Health.

1. What made you choose your specialty area?

My goal when I entered vet school was to become a clinician-researcher, and I knew that epidemiology was an essential tool for creating new
knowledge. I really fell in love with epidemiology during vet school, and this was only reinforced during my Master of Science in Clinical Epidemiology. Board certification in Epidemiology seemed like the next step in supporting my love of epidemiology and joining a community of other veterinarians passionate about the same things!

2. What is one thing you wish you could tell other general practitioners regarding your specialty?

I tell my students that the ability to interpret veterinary literature is the “one weird trick” for being better at anything they care about. Most general practitioners care about being a better doctor, which is one reason they seek AAHA accreditation for their practices. Being up to date on the literature and practicing critical thinking also helps prevent us from getting stuck in old routines. Epidemiology is the basic science of clinical medicine, which can seem remote from the day-to-day practice of veterinary medicine. However, an understanding of epidemiologic principles is crucial for practicing evidence-based medicine.

3. What is one thing that clients could do that would make your job more satisfying?

I really appreciate it when owners are willing to enroll their pets in clinical trials. The only thing that would make it more satisfying is if they understood just how much study participation can help people and animals.

4. What is the most rewarding part of your job?

I hope it’s not cheating to pick two things, but I love creating new knowledge and creating new veterinarians.

5. What advice would you give to someone considering your specialty?

Go for it! Our community is growing, and we’d love for anyone with a passion for and expertise in epidemiology to join us. To become board-certified in the epidemiology specialty, you first must become board-certified in Preventive Medicine, which is a hurdle, but one that is very achievable. While I became board-certified in Preventive Medicine mainly to become eligible for board certification in Epidemiology, it really provided insight into the breadth of the veterinary profession.

Photo courtesy of Rachael Kreisler