The sudden passing of Dr Mark Opperman, a respected authority in veterinary practice management and the creator and president of Veterinary Management Consultation Inc. (VMC), has left the veterinary community in deep sorrow. On Monday, July 23, 2024, Dr. Opperman unexpectedly passed away due to a medical emergency. His departure creates a big hole in the veterinary practice management sector, where his knowledge, counsel, and influence have been invaluable for many years.
About Dr. Opperman
In addition to being a consultant, Dr. Opperman gave a lot of speeches and taught a lot. He gave talks at eminent gatherings and conferences all around the world, such as the London Veterinary Forum, the North American Veterinary Conference, the World Small Animal Veterinary Conference, the Denmark Annual Congress, and the Fetch dvm360 conference (previously CVC). His capacity to communicate intricate management concepts in an interesting and useful way made him a highly sought-after speaker and a reputable authority in the industry.
His Legacy
Beyond his consulting work and speaking engagements, Dr. Opperman made significant contributions to the management of veterinary practices. The Veterinary Hospital Managers Association (VHMA) was founded by him, and he presided over the organisation until 1993. Under his direction, VHMA expanded into an important global organisation that offers veterinary practice managers worldwide tools, training, and support. His goal for VHMA, which still guides the organisation today, was to establish a community of professionals committed to improving the calibre and efficacy of veterinary practice management.
His community mourns
The veterinary community has been deeply affected by the news of Dr. Opperman’s passing, and friends, clients, and colleagues have expressed their sorrow and gratitude in abundance. In an emotional statement, VHMA expressed their sadness over the passing of their founder and ardent supporter: “Mark Opperman, Certified Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM): Honouring A Pioneer & Companion. We regret to inform you of the demise of Mark Opperman, our friend and coworker. His friends and family are in our thoughts and prayers. From the heart, VHMA.
Summary
For many years to come, veterinary professionals will continue to be guided and inspired by the contributions of Dr. Opperman. We are reminded as we honour him of the value of commitment, empathy, and the ripple effect that one person can have on a multitude of lives. His life and work are examples of the strength of tenacity, foresight, and the eternal importance of showing compassion to others.
