DVM vs DACVIM: What's the difference?

Wondering what those letters after your veterinarian's name mean? The credentials DVM signify that an individual has earned a doctorate degree from a school of veterinary medicine in the United States. In other countries, this may be abbreviated as DMV, VMD, etc., but the meaning is essentially the same.

The credentials DACVIM signify that an individual has gone on to achieve Board-certification in one of the six specialties of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine, or the ACVIM. The individual is considered a member of the ACVIM, also called an ACVIM Diplomate.

What is an ACVIM Diplomate?

ACVIM Diplomates are Board-certified veterinary specialists who have received advanced training in one or more of the six ACVIM specialties: cardiology, large animal internal medicine, neurology, nutrition, oncology and small animal internal medicine. To become Board-certified, Diplomates must have completed four years of veterinary college, a one-year internship or equivalent, and two to three years in a recognized residency program. There are additional training and caseload requirements that must be met during residency. In addition, candidates must pass a series of rigorous examinations to become an ACVIM Diplomate.

When should I see a veterinary specialist?

Ideally, this is a decision you will make with your primary care veterinarian. They are the doctor that knows your pet, its current problems, and know how veterinary specialists in the area can help. The mutual respect and cooperation between referring veterinarians and specialists is key to the smooth and effective handling of your pet’s care. However, if your pet’s medical issues are not improving despite the best efforts by your primary care veterinarian, a specialist may be able to offer new treatment options. 

What is the Triad of Care?

We encourage animal owners to think of their visit to a veterinary specialist as an extension of their family veterinarian. Together, the primary care veterinarian, Board-certified veterinary specialist and the animal owner communicate and work together to make up the ideal Triad of Care for the animal.

Cardiologists:

focus on diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the heart and some lung condition

Large Animal Internal Medicine (LAIM) Specialists:

focus on the anatomy, physiology and internal medicine of horses, cattle, sheep, goats, alpacas, llamas and others.

Neurologists: 

focus on conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, muscles and nerves.

The ACVIM recognizes the essential contributions of the veterinary technician community. Their ongoing dedication and professionalism aids advances toward the shared goal of excellence in animal healthcare.

Veterinary technician specialists are certified by the Academy of Internal Medicine for Veterinary Technicians (AIMVT) and are an integral part of the Veterinary Healthcare Team. These individuals have made the extra effort to increase their knowledge in the fields of Cardiology, Large Animal Internal Medicine, Neurology, Nutrition Oncology and Small Animal Internal Medicine.

A strong veterinary healthcare team, including technicians with a VTS (Internal Medicine) designation, supports the achievement, caring, vision, innovation and medicine that the ACVIM promotes. Move your career forward with AIMVT! 

Your Role as a Primary Care Veterinarian

As a primary care veterinarian, you are the foundation of your patients’ care. You’re often the first point of contact for pet owners, providing critical preventive care, wellness exams, and early disease detection. Your familiarity with your patients’ medical histories allows you to detect when advanced care is needed and guide pet owners toward the right next steps. By referring cases to veterinary specialists, you ensure your patients receive expert, tailored care for their unique needs.

This collaboration—known as the Triad of Care—connects you, the pet owner, and a board-certified veterinary specialist to form a team focused on achieving the best outcomes for your patients. Together, this partnership elevates the quality of care you can offer and strengthens your relationships with clients.