The National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) 2024 Demographic Survey provides an opportunity to better understand the current veterinary technician landscape and a valuable opportunity to compare the profession's evolution since the 2022 survey.
Both reports result in a mixture of potential and concern, echoing a theme we have come to recognize in this field: passionate professionals striving for sustainability in a system that has yet to fully acknowledge their worth. As a longtime credentialed veterinary technician and advocate, I view this year's survey results not as a repetition of old news but as a data-backed requirement for change in our profession.
Professional identity
Title protection has always been at the top of the concerns of credentialed veterinary technicians and is a primary focus of NAVTA's ongoing strategic plan. In 2024, the call for title protection was as strong as ever. A strong majority, 93 percent, of respondents supported legally protecting the term "veterinary technician," and 90 percent advocated for a national credentialing standard. While nearly identical to 2022, these numbers highlight the profession's unwavering desire for nationwide title recognition, clarity, and protection. While we have seen some progress in title protection in the U.S., there is still a need for increased recognition and protection.
While the profession remains united in its desire for title protection and a unified title, there are still split opinions on the desired title for credentialed veterinary technicians. In both surveys, the majority expressed support for transitioning the professional title to "veterinary nurse"—58 percent in 2024, reflecting consistent support for the title change in the United States, but still by a narrow majority margin, demonstrating a large portion of the profession is opposed to the title "veterinary nurse." While this topic has been controversial over the years, it is important to continue to engage in healthy conversations regarding the best future for our profession and find a path to a united front, and to remain consistent with the legal title recognized in your state as determined by the veterinary governing bodies.
