Sometimes you need to step away from a practice in order to focus on it. That was exactly the case for two hospital administrative leaders who attended the 2023 VHMA Management Exchange.
A pact was made between Jake Waas, CVPM, Hospital Administrator, Covina Animal Hospital, and Jon Cunnington, MBA, CVPM, Regional Operations Director, VCA Animal Hospitals, to challenge and support one another in the implementation of significant changes within their respective practices. Together, they will boldly focus on improving efficiency and embracing and strengthening team professionalism.
Their parallel journeys toward change will start with onboarding and include skills- and cross-training. During this interactive “tell all” session, they will share their evolving experience of rethinking tasks, roles, compensation, and ways to measure the success of their initiatives.
Does a smaller team of well-trained and more highly paid paraprofessionals lead to better patient care, client service, associate engagement, and profitability? Jake and Jon believe so, and this workshop will provide a look at how they plan to prove it together.
Jake Waas is a highly motivated veterinary practice owner and hospital administrator passionate about building a successful business for all stakeholders. Growing up, Jake was surrounded by the veterinary industry thanks to his mother who is a veterinarian, and his parents who together owned the practice where he currently works. This early exposure gave him a unique perspective and a deep appreciation for the work that goes into running a successful veterinary practice.
Jake Waas-After earning his bachelor's degree from UC Davis in 2014, Jake joined the family business full-time. While his parents retired in 2016, he remains committed to continuing the legacy of providing quality veterinary care. As a hospital administrator, he builds systems that support a healthy culture and a strong team. He recently earned his Certified Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM) designation in 2021, demonstrating his commitment to excellence in the field.
Jake enjoys staying physically active in his free time through weightlifting and playing sports. He also cherishes spending quality time with family and friends. With a solid commitment to continuous improvement, Jake always strives to make his practice the best it can be.
