The corporate-versus-independent debate is getting stale, writes Bob Lester, DVM. He asserts it is time to stop pointing fingers and start focusing on what drives hospital success. The answer: strong, local, boots-on-the-ground leadership.
Here are some of Lester’s thoughts to consider:
Veterinary medicine is more complex than ever . . . leadership is the most crucial ingredient in long-term success.
The dyad model works in human health, pairing a medical leader with a nonclinical administrator.
Much depends on local leaders: morale and employee retention, operational success, financial performance and client experience.
Pet owners don’t care who owns the practice. Instead, they care about how they’re treated.
Source: Today’s Veterinary Business, February 1, 2026. Link. Veterinary professionals working in either independent or corporate practices want the same things:
- To be fulfilled professionally.
- To enjoy their work and those they work with.
- To make a difference in the lives of patients and clients.
No matter who owns the veterinary practice, strong local leadership is the difference-maker.” – Bob Lester, DVM
INSIGHTS: There is much to consider in the section In Defense of Corporate Practice. “We work fewer days, get paid more, and enjoy better benefits than ever before,” says Lester.
Image: Link.
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