How to Become a Vet Office Manager in Ohio

A vet office manager is vital in a veterinarian’s office and is responsible for most administrative tasks.

Vet office managers often spend most of their time scheduling appointments, upkeeping records, and collecting payments.

While they aren’t responsible for any medical practices, vet office managers still play an important role in helping aid animals and keeping them healthy.

If you want to become a vet office manager in Ohio, keep reading.

Vet Office Manager Duties in Ohio

A vet office manager is essentially a manager of a veterinary office.

Their main role is administrative work around the office and other varied tasks.

Primary duties include taking phone calls, scheduling appointments, and bookkeeping.

Additionally, vet office managers will keep inventory, order supplies, and implement policies.

Lastly, they may also aid in the hiring process and help train staff.

Other duties and responsibilities may include:

• Reception
• Scheduling
• Maintaining financial records
• Ensuring compliance with state laws and regulations
• Monitoring work staff and performance
• Provide feedback to staff
• Coach or train staff
• Manage staff, such as hiring, recruitment, and more
• Dealing with client complaints
• Monitor and maintain inventory
• Keep and update medical records

Licensing Requirements to Become

In the state of Ohio, having a formal degree or certificate is not required.

In most cases, on-the-job training or prior experience in a manager position is sufficient.

However, getting qualifications can help boost applicants’ resumes and further their understanding of veterinary office duties.

Here are the recommended steps one should take if looking to further your education and qualify for the role.

Step 1: High School Diploma or Equivalent

The first step to qualifying for a vet office manager position is to be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma.

For those who don’t, equivalent education, such as a GED, will work.

After that, applicants will need to develop skills such as quick thinking, efficient typing, and more.

Step 2: Program Completion or On-the-Job Training

Next, applicants will need to either complete a certificate or degree program in a related field or gain on-the-job training.

Programs span from a short six-month certificate program to a full-on four-year degree.

While not necessary, it can be beneficial to get a four-year degree to further education and be able to apply for advanced roles.

The state of Ohio doesn’t require applicants to have a degree.

Many vet office managers are trained on the job, either through mentorship programs or other jobs with a similar role.

So, applicants can choose which method suits them best.

Step 3: Attend a Verified Certificate Program

Applicants looking to continue their education can attend a continuing education program.

These programs are designed to give applicants relevant skills to help them on the job.

Most applicants seek education certificates certified through the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association (VHMA).

The most common certificate is the Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM) certificate.

Vet Office Manager Programs

Vet office managers have a wide array of options when it comes to certification and education.

Many offices accept relevant education or job experience in business management or administration.

Future veterinary office managers will want proper education through certificate programs or a four-year degree.

Owens Community College

Owens Community College offers an online certificate program through Ed2Go’s platform.

The program is 450 hours and spans over 18 months.

Attending students can apply at any time of the year and complete the program at their own pace.

The cost of attendance is $6,170, but it can sometimes be found at a discount.

There is also the option to pay through Affirm, but not everyone will qualify.

Those accepted will be able to pay monthly instead of the upfront costs.

Penn Foster

Penn Foster offers an accredited online veterinary practice management certificate program.

The undergrad certificate requires that students complete 19 credits, which are split between seven courses.

The program delves into management principles, veterinary practice management, human resource management, and business ethics.

Students can contact the program for pricing and more details.

Vetgirl

The website VETgirl offers an online certificate program in practice management.

The program consists of 29 courses and takes around 30.5 hours to complete.

Students can learn through self-paced teaching.

The courses are split into modules, which can be bought individually.

Salary

The average vet office manager salary is $84,482, but it ranges between $73,545 and $97,067.

On the low end, the salary is averaged at $63,588, with the high end being $108,525.

Pay is often dependent upon location, skills, and expertise.

Regional Salary in Ohio

How to Become a Vet Office Manager by State