The veterinary community is in deep mourning following the unexpected death of Dr. Mark Opperman, a revered figure in veterinary practice management and the founder and president of Veterinary Management Consultation Inc. (VMC). Dr. Opperman passed away suddenly on Monday, July 23, 2024, following a medical emergency. His passing leaves a significant void in the field of veterinary practice management, where his influence, guidance, and expertise have been instrumental for decades.
Dr. Mark Opperman was a Certified Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM) and a visionary leader in veterinary consulting. Based in Evergreen, Colorado, his firm, VMC Inc., provided invaluable consulting services to more than 800 veterinary hospitals across North America. His work spanned various critical aspects of veterinary practice management, including associate hiring, partnership formation, exit strategies, employee relations, profitability, and operational efficiency. His insights and strategies have shaped the operations of numerous veterinary practices, helping them achieve greater success and sustainability.
Beyond his consultancy, Dr. Opperman was a prolific speaker and educator. He lectured at prominent conferences and meetings worldwide, including the Fetch dvm360 conference (formerly CVC), the North American Veterinary Conference, the World Small Animal Veterinary Conference, the Denmark Annual Congress, and the London Veterinary Forum. His ability to convey complex management principles in an engaging and practical manner made him a sought-after speaker and a respected authority in the field.
A Legacy of Leadership and Innovation
Dr. Opperman’s contributions to veterinary practice management were not limited to his consultancy and speaking engagements. He was a founding figure of the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association (VHMA) and served as its president until 1993. Under his leadership, VHMA grew into a vital organization that provides resources, education, and support to veterinary practice managers across the globe. His vision for VHMA was to create a community of professionals dedicated to enhancing the quality and effectiveness of veterinary practice management, a vision that continues to drive the association today.
In addition to his role in VHMA, Dr. Opperman established the VMC School of Veterinary Practice Management, where he trained over 250 practice managers. His school was known for its comprehensive curriculum that covered all facets of practice management, from financial oversight to human resource management. Graduates of the VMC School often spoke of Dr. Opperman’s profound impact on their careers, crediting him with providing the knowledge and tools necessary to excel in their roles.
Remembering Dr. Mark Opperman: A Pioneer and Mentor
The news of Dr. Opperman’s passing has resonated deeply within the veterinary community, eliciting an outpouring of grief and tributes from colleagues, clients, and friends. VHMA issued a heartfelt statement mourning the loss of their founder and long-time supporter: “Certified Veterinary Practice Manager (CVPM): Mark Opperman: Remembering A Pioneer & Friend. It is with much sadness that we announce the passing of our friend and colleague, Mark Opperman. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. With Sympathy, VHMA.”
Dr. Opperman’s legacy is defined by his unwavering commitment to improving veterinary practice management and his dedication to mentoring and supporting others in the field. His approach was characterized by a combination of deep expertise, practical solutions, and a genuine care for the people he worked with. He was known for his ability to listen, understand the unique challenges faced by each practice, and provide tailored advice that led to measurable improvements.
Impact on the Veterinary Community
Dr. Opperman’s impact extended far beyond his immediate clients and students. His publications, including books and articles on veterinary practice management, have been widely read and implemented by veterinary professionals around the world. His book, “The Art of Veterinary Practice Management,” is considered a seminal work in the field, offering practical guidance and insights drawn from his extensive experience.
His death has prompted many in the veterinary community to reflect on his contributions and the enduring influence of his work. Colleagues remember him not only as a brilliant consultant and educator but also as a kind and generous person who was always willing to share his knowledge and support others. His clients, many of whom became lifelong friends, speak of the transformative effect he had on their practices and their professional lives.
A Personal Reflection
For those who knew Dr. Opperman personally, his loss is felt on a deeply personal level. He was not only a professional mentor but also a friend who took a genuine interest in the lives of those around him. His relationship with his family, particularly his wife Jennifer and their children, was one of the most important aspects of his life. He often spoke of them with pride and affection, and they were his source of strength and inspiration.
Dr. Opperman’s friends and family describe him as a man of integrity, compassion, and resilience. His ability to balance a demanding professional life with a rich personal life was admired by many. He was known for his love of the outdoors, particularly hiking in the mountains near his home in Evergreen. These personal qualities, combined with his professional accomplishments, made him a beloved figure to all who knew him.
Honoring Dr. Opperman’s Legacy
In the wake of Dr. Opperman’s passing, there have been calls to honor his legacy in meaningful ways. VHMA and other veterinary organizations are considering initiatives to continue his work and ensure that his contributions to veterinary practice management are remembered and built upon. There are discussions about establishing a scholarship fund in his name to support the education of future veterinary practice managers, as well as dedicating future conferences and educational programs to his memory.
Dr. Opperman’s funeral arrangements and obituary will be released by his family in due course. In the meantime, the veterinary community is coming together to celebrate his life and legacy, sharing stories and memories that highlight the profound impact he had on so many people. His family has expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support and condolences they have received, and they are taking comfort in knowing how much he was loved and respected by his peers.
The unexpected death of Dr. Mark Opperman has left a significant void in the field of veterinary practice management and in the hearts of those who knew him. His pioneering work, dedication to education, and compassionate approach to consulting have left an indelible mark on the veterinary community. As the community mourns his loss, there is a collective commitment to honor his legacy by continuing the work he was so passionate about and by supporting each other through this difficult time.
Dr. Opperman’s contributions will not be forgotten, and his influence will continue to guide and inspire veterinary professionals for years to come. As we remember him, we are reminded of the importance of dedication, compassion, and the impact one person can have on the lives of many. His life and work serve as a testament to the power of perseverance, vision, and the enduring value of caring for others.
