SAIM SPECIALTY CERTIFICATION AND RESIDENCY TRAINING MANUAL Effective July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025
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SPECIALTY CERTIFICATION AND RESIDENCY TRAINING MANUAL:
SMALL ANIMAL INTERNAL MEDICINE
Certification and Residency Training Manual (SAIM CM) for Residents, Candidates, Sponsoring
Institutions, Program Directors, Resident Advisors, Supervising Diplomates,
and Secondary-Specialty Supervising Diplomates
Effective July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025
The information contained in this Manual becomes effective on July 1, 2024. It represents the current policies, procedures,
and requirements for individuals involved in certification processes of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine
(synonyms: ACVIM or the College).
ACVIM policies, procedures and requirements are subject to periodic review and change. All residents, Candidates,
sponsoring institutions, program directors, resident advisors, supervising diplomates, and secondary-specialty supervising
diplomates must read the current and relevant Certification and Residency Training Manuals.
While a concerted effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this document, if clarification is required, program
directors, resident advisors, supervising Diplomates, secondary-specialty supervising Diplomates, residents, and
Candidates should contact the ACVIM certification and accreditation staff at the ACVIM office, preferably by email at
certification@acvim.org, or by mail or phone, as referenced below.
If program directors, resident advisors, supervising Diplomates, secondary-specialty supervising Diplomates residents,
and/or Candidates have any questions, or if concerns arise about proposed or actual changes that could impact the
certification and/or residency training processes, they should contact the ACVIM certification and accreditation staff at the
ACVIM office, preferably by email at certification@acvim.org or by mail or phone, as referenced below.
American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine
116 Inverness Drive East, Suite 375
Englewood, CO 80112
Tel: (303) 231-9933 or (800) 245-9081 (toll-free in USA and Canada)
Fax: (303) 231-0880
Website: www.ACVIM.org
Email: Certification@ACVIM.org
SAIM SPECIALTY CERTIFICATION AND RESIDENCY TRAINING MANUAL Effective July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025
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CONTENTS
SPECIALTY CERTIFICATION AND RESIDENCY TRAINING MANUAL: SMALL ANIMAL INTERNAL MEDICINE i
1 SAIM DOCUMENTS AND FORMS 4
2 DEFINITIONS FOR SAIM CANDIDACY AND RESIDENCY TRAINING PROGRAMS 4
3 SAIM RESIDENCY TRAINING PROGRAMS 4
3.A ACCEPTABLE SAIM RTPS 5
3.B RESIDENCY TRAINING PROGRAM REGISTRATION AND EVALUATION 5
3.C SAIM CANDIDATE REGISTRATION 5
3.D GENERAL OBJECTIVES OF THE SAIM RTP 5
3.E SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES OF THE SAIM RTP 6
3.F SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS OF A SAIM RTP 7
4 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ASSOCIATED WITH SAIM CANDIDACY AND RTPS 14
4.A ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE SPONSORING INSTITUTION (SI) 14
4.B ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF SECONDARY TRAINING SITES 15
4.C ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE PROGRAM DIRECTOR (PD) 15
4.D ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE RESIDENT ADVISOR (RA) 17
4.E ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE SUPERVISING DIPLOMATE (SD) 17
4.F ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE RESIDENT 18
4.G ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE CANDIDATE 18
5 CLINICAL MILESTONES FOR SAIM RESIDENTS 18
5.A CLINICAL MILESTONES FOR FIRST-YEAR SAIM RESIDENTS 18
5.B CLINICAL MILESTONES FOR SECOND- AND THIRD-YEAR SAIM RESIDENTS 21
6 RESIDENT EVALUATION 23
6.A RESIDENT CASE LOGS 23
6.B RESIDENT PROCEDURE LOGS 23
6.C EDUCATION LOGS 23
7 PUBLICATION REQUIREMENT 23
7.A SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS FOR SAIM PUBLICATIONS 23
7.B ACCEPTABLE TYPES OF PUBLICATIONS 24
7.C SUBMISSION OF THE PUBLICATION TO THE SAIM CC 24
8 THE GENERAL EXAMINATION 25
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9 SAIM CREDENTIALS 25
9.A SAIM CREDENTIALS ELIGIBILITY, REQUIREMENTS AND SUBMISSION 25
9.B CREDENTIAL ITEMS TO BE SUBMITTED 26
10 SAIM SPECIALTY EXAMINATION 27
10.A SAIM SPECIALTY EXAMINATION REGISTRATION AND FEE 27
10.B SAIM SPECIALTY EXAMINATION CONTENT AND FORMAT 27
11 CORRESPONDANCE, INQUIRIES, ISSUES AND COMPLAINTS 27
12 MAINTENANCE OF CREDENTIALS (MOC) 28
APPENDIX A: IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS 29
NON-TRADITIONAL TRAINING IN SMALL ANIMAL INTERNAL MEDICINE 29
SAIM CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE (SAIM CC) 30
SAIM OMBUDSPERSON 30
SAIM PROGRAM DIRECTOR (PD) 30
SAIM RESIDENCY TRAINING COMMITTEE (RTC) 30
SAIM RESIDENT ADVISOR (RA) 30
SAIM SECONDARY-SPECIALTY SUPERVISING DIPLOMATE (SSSD) 31
SAIM SUPERVISING DIPLOMATE (SD) 31
SUPERVISION OF RESIDENCY TRAINING 31
TRAINING TIMES / TRAINING WEEKS 32
SAIM SPECIALTY CERTIFICATION AND RESIDENCY TRAINING MANUAL Effective July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025
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The ACVIM certifies specialists in Small Animal Internal Medicine (SAIM). Small animal internists focus on
systemic diseases and diseases of internal organs in dogs and cats. This Manual explains the policies,
procedures and requirements for Candidates working toward certification in this specialty and the specific
requirements for ACVIM SAI M residency training programs (RTPs), that are in addition to the requirements
specified in the Certification Manual (CM), which are required of all Candidates in all specialties.
1 SAIM DOCUMENTS AND FORMS
The following may not be an exhaustive list of applicable documents and forms. Please navigate to the
ACVIM website for additional documentation and forms.
• Online Candidate Registration Form (via Candidate Dashboard)
• SAIM Progress Report Information Letter.
• SAIM Progress Report Form (due annually on Oct. 1).
• SAIM Scholarly Activity Information Letter.
• SAIM Scholarly Activity Form.
• Application to take the General Examination (via Candidate dashboard).
• General Examination blueprint, reading list & study resources (60 days before the
examination date)
• SAIM Credentials Packet (prerequisite for the Specialty Exam)
• Registration to take the SAIM Specialty Examination (via Candidate dashboard).
• SAIM Specialty Examination blueprint, reading list & study resources (60 days before the
examination date).
2 DEFINITIONS FOR SAIM CANDIDACY AND RESIDENCY TRAINING PROGRAMS
Review important definitions related to the specialty of SAIM in Appendix A: Important SAIM-Related
Definitions. These definitions expand upon those provided in the Certification Manual as they pertain
specifically to the specialty of SAIM.
3 SAIM RESIDENCY TRAINING PROGRAMS
The RTP is the foundation for the education and training of ACVIM SAIM Candidates seeking future
certification ACVIM SAIM Diplomates.
The standards contained in this Manual are the minimum requirements for the SAIM specialty. An ACVIM-
approved SAIM RTP may include additional requirements above the minimum required by this Manual.
Those additional requirements then become part of that specific RTP. A resident in such an RTP must fulfill
all the additional requirements of that RTP, along with the minimum requirements in this Manual, in order to
become an ACVIM SAIM Diplomate, as those additional requirements are necessary for that resident to
complete the RTP and obtain a residency certificate.
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A SAIM RTP, however, embodies more than fulfilling the requirements in this document. The SAIM RTC
expects RTPs to be cohesive, integrated, stable, and ongoing programs that continually raise the standards
in SAIM, while training highly capable internists whose capabilities build upon those of their mentors.
3.A ACCEPTABLE SAIM RTPS
A registry of the current ACVIM-approved SAIM RTPs, as evaluated by the SAIM RTC, is available on
the ACVIM website, or upon request from the ACVIM office.
3.B RESIDENCY TRAINING PROGRAM REGISTRATION AND EVALUATION
The ACVIM’s policies, procedures and criteria for RTP registration, annual re-approval, probation and
termination are standardized across all ACVIM specialties and are described in the Certification
Manual (sections 3.C.4-6).
3.C SAIM CANDIDATE REGISTRATION
The ACVIM’s policies, procedures and criteria for resident registration as an ACVIM Candidate in an
ACVIM-approved RTP are standardized across all ACVIM specialties and are described in the
Certification Manual (sections 3.C.3).
3.D GENERAL OBJECTIVES OF THE SAIM RTP
• When applicable, residents should participate in the emergency service on a
rotating basis. The RTP will describe the nature of these rotations on the RTP
description submission form.
• Where applicable, the RTP will encourage residents to participate in clinical
teaching (e.g., case supervision, daily rounds, etc.) of interns, veterinary
students, or veterinary technician students.
• Where applicable, residents will be involved in classroom and laboratory
teaching.
• Where applicable, residents will prepare and deliver continuing education
seminars and participate in scientific meetings.
• Where applicable, residents in conjunction with the SD will guide and oversee
interns, veterinary students, or veterinary technician students in the operation
of the specialty clinics. This will include supervising interns and students in the
operation of the hospital emergency service.
• Residents will gain a comprehensive understanding of pathophysiology as it
relates to SAIM.
• Residents will develop and promote interest in and understanding of the SAIM
specialist’s role as a clinician-scientist.
• Residents will receive instruction and experience in research, publication,
communication, and education.
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3.E SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES OF THE SAIM RTP
• An RTP must provide a well-rounded experience and caseload with direct
supervision.
• An RTP must provide rotations other than internal medicine rotations
supervised by Board-certified ACVIM specialists other than SAIM, by European
College of Veterinary Internal Medicine-Companion Animal (ECVIM-CA)
specialists other than in internal medicine, or by European College of
Veterinary Neurology (ECVN) specialists so that residents receive mentored
training in other ACVIM specialties (section 3.F.3). This will enhance the
training experience and will provide residents with opportunities to work one-
on-one with Board-certified specialists in areas outside of SAIM.
• An RTP must provide diagnostic imaging and clinical pathology training. This
will include at least 2 weeks of instruction under the direct supervision of a
Board-certified veterinary radiologist in diagnostic imaging (1 week each in
diagnostic ultrasound and in diagnostic radiology) and 1 week of instruction in
clinical pathology under the direct supervision of a Board-certified clinical
pathologist. This training must be done in dedicated training weeks in addition
to being integrated into the overall RTP. The goal for this training is for the
resident to fully immerse themselves in the discipline being studied.
• Residents will participate in Diplomate-attended journal clubs and
clinicopathology conferences. (As identified in the literature, the
clinicopathological conference primarily relies on the case method of teaching
medicine. These may include participation in remote conferencing. It is a
teaching tool that illustrates the logical, measured consideration of a differential
diagnosis used to evaluate patients. Cases that are unusual presentations of
common diagnoses or typical presentations of unusual diagnoses make the
best cases for clinical pathologic case presentation. Cases for such a
conference must be relevant, solvable, and should be open to discussion.)
• The RTP will keep records of dates and articles reviewed that may be
requested for review by the RTC if there are questions during a program’s
annual review.
• The RTP will develop a resident’s clinician-scientist skills through activities
such as Diplomate-attended journal clubs, research project participation,
mentored grant writing, and publication of peer-reviewed manuscripts.
• The RTP will provide and require resident participation in the preparation and
presentation of formal talks in continuing education and scientific presentation
styles.
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3.F SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS OF A SAIM RTP
It is incumbent upon the SI, PD, RAs, SDs, SSSDs, residents and Candidates, as well as relevant
ACVIM staff and committee members, to be aware of these RTP requirements, and to collectively
work towards ensuring they are being fulfilled.
3.F.1 DURATION OF A SAIM RTP
An ACVIM-approved SAIM RTP is a minimum of 3 years or 156 weeks. A SAIM RTP must
entail a minimum of 84 weeks of intensive clinical training, a minimum of 68 weeks of which
must be intensive clinical training in SAIM, and an additional 16 weeks consisting of at least
8 weeks of intensive clinical training in SAIM, cardiology, neurology, nutrition, and/or
oncology, and up to 8 weeks of intensive training in another ABVS or EBVS specialty. The
remaining weeks of the RTP will be spent completing research activities, radiology, clinical
pathology, study time, vacation, and likely additional weeks of intensive clinical training in
SAIM and/or other ABVS or EBVS specialties.
3.F.2 INTENSIVE CLINICAL TRAINING IN SAIM
At least 68 of the 156 weeks of a SAIM RTP must consist of intensive clinical training in
SAIM. During the time of intensive clinical training, the resident must be under the direct
supervision of the equivalent of a minimum of 2 full-time ACVIM SAIM Diplomates and
member, or under the direct supervision of a minimum of 1 full-time ACVIM SAIM Diplomate
and member and 1 full-time ECVIM-CA Diplomate. Training with the SDs should be
balanced so that substantially more scheduled training with 1 Diplomate and less scheduled
training with another Diplomate does not occur.
During this time, SAIM residents must actively participate in patient management, including
receiving, selection, performance, and diagnostic test interpretation; patient management
and decision-making; client communication; appropriate follow-up; and prompt professional
communications with referring veterinarians. A SAIM SD must directly supervise and review
case management.
Residents must maintain complete medical records for all patients in their care. The
problem-oriented veterinary medical record system is strongly encouraged. Medical records
must be retrievable and searchable.
During SAIM clinical training, residents must attend and participate in daily clinical rounds
with at least one SAIM SD present. In an RTP where veterinary students are integral to and
participating in hospital activities, residents should, if possible, lead rounds discussions an
average of once weekly (over the entire RTP) with an SD present until the SD deems a
resident capable of leading student rounds independently.
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Additional weeks of intensive clinical training in SAIM, exceeding the required 68 weeks, are
desirable. There is no maximum number of weeks a SAIM resident can spend receiving
intensive clinical training in SAIM, provided that the resident meets the minimum
requirements for intensive clinical training in SAIM, as well as the requirements for intensive
clinical training in other ACVIM specialties, clinical training in other non-ACVIM specialties,
research and scholarly activities.
3.F.3 INTENSIVE CLINICAL TRAINING IN ACVIM SECONDARY SPECIALTIES
At least 16 of the remaining 88 weeks of a SAIM RTP must consist of clinical training under
the direct supervision of 1 or more SSSDs in other veterinary specialties registered by the
ABVS or the EBVS. A maximum of 16 weeks of the 88 weeks may be spent in any single
ACVIM specialty other than SAIM.
At least 8 of the required 16 weeks must be in at least 2 of the following 4 ACVIM
specialties: cardiology, neurology, nutrition, and/or oncology. Moreover, residents must
accrue the 8 weeks of intensive clinical training in these ACVIM specialties in a minimum of
2-week blocks, and the resident must have primary case responsibility. For these 8 weeks,
the residents must be under the direct supervision of the SSSD.
The remaining 8 of the required 16 weeks, may also be in the aforementioned 4 ACVIM
specialties, or may be in other veterinary specialties registered by the ABVS or EBVS. Once
again, residents must accrue these 8 additional weeks in a minimum of 2-week blocks, and
the resident must have primary case responsibility.
A maximum of two secondary training site rotations is allowable for meeting the intensive
clinical training in other ACVIM specialties requirement.
3.F.4 TRAINING IN NON-ACVIM SECONDARY SPECIALTIES
RADIOLOGY
During the remaining 72 weeks of a SAIM RTP, the resident must spend at least 2 weeks
(80 hours) under the supervision of an ACVR Diplomate or EVDI Diplomate.
At least 1 week (40 hours) must be spent interpreting radiographs, learning and evaluating
the results of special imaging techniques (other than ultrasonography), and attending
radiology rounds and/or seminars. The majority of this time must be spent under the direct
supervision of the SSSD; however, didactic portions of this training may include remote
supervision (i.e. interactive) with the SSSD. For this training requirement specifically, the
specialty of SAIM allow for non-continuous training, in which the required 40 hours may be
accumulated over 2 weeks (2 x 20 hours).
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At least 1 week of (40 hours) must be spent training in ultrasonography, under the direct
supervision of an ACVR Diplomate or EVDI Diplomate. The training should emphasize
abdominal ultrasonography. It must include the hands-on performance of abdominal
ultrasonography on clinical cases, and theoretical training in the principles and application
of ultrasonography. The majority of this time must be spent under the direct supervision of
the SSSD; however, didactic portions of this training may include remote supervision (i.e.,
interactive) with the SSSD. This is the minimum requirement for training in
ultrasonography. It is recognized that true proficiency in this diagnostic technique requires
more than this minimum training standard For this requirement, specifically, the specialty
of SAIM allows for non-continuous training, in which the required 40 hours may be
accumulated over two 2 weeks (2 x 20 hours).
CLINICAL PATHOLOGY
Additionally, during the remaining 72 weeks, at least 1 week (40 hours) must be spent
evaluating clinical pathologic findings and reviewing cytologic and/or histologic specimens
under the direct or remote supervision of SSSD certified by the American College of
Veterinary Pathology (ACVP) and/or the European College of Veterinary Pathology
(ECVP). For this requirement specifically, the specialty of SAIM allows for non-continuous
training, in which the required 40 hours may be accumulated over 2 weeks (2 x 20 hours).
Once again, a maximum of 16 weeks may be spent in any single secondary specialty other
than SAIM.
3.F.5 RESEARCH AND SCHOLARLY ACTIVITY
At least 12 weeks of a SAIM RTP must be allocated for research and scholarly activity,
ideally in the pursuit of a publication. Time allocated to research or to attend/participate in
scientific meetings should be taken during the remaining 72-week period, not during the
initial 68 weeks allocated to intensive clinical training in SAIM or during the 16 weeks
allocated to intensive clinical training in other ACVIM specialties.
A week may be acquired over a 14-day span and may also be combined with other training
segments in a 7-day span (e.g., study/research days interspersed with clinical training with
remote supervision is acceptable when necessary).
Completion of any one of the options listed below will satisfy the requirements for research
by SAIM residents:
• Copy of a first-author research paper published in a peer-reviewed journal,
documenting research accomplished predominantly during the RTP, or letter of
acceptance (unconditional) from a peer-reviewed journal documenting the same.
• Evidence of presentation of an abstract (oral or poster) at a scientific forum,
describing original work undertaken predominantly during the RTP.
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• Documented (letter from RA) completion of a prospective or retrospective
research project, undertaken predominantly during the RTP, that is unpublished
(e.g., thesis).
• Documented (letter from RA) submission of a prospective research grant/project,
generated predominantly during the RTP, pertinent to the Candidate’s specialty.
• Documented (letter from RA and/or transcript) completion of 3 credits, or the
equivalent, of graduate course work in research methods, biostatistics, and/or
research ethics.
• Documented (letter from RA and/or certificate) completion of at least 6 hours of
research-focused seminars or classes of an appropriately advanced level
undertaken during the RTP. These may be offered by the ACVIM, through online
programs, or by other institutions. These seminars or classes will cover subjects
such as the following:
o Critical evaluation of the veterinary medical/biomedical literature.
o Grant writing.
o Study design and participation in clinical trials.
o Biostatistics.
o Research ethics.
A form documenting scholarly activity must be submitted by the resident, signed by the
PD or RA, for credentials, although some requirements may remain pending at that time. If
this is the case, an updated form, documenting completion of the required scholarly
activities, is required for Board-certification.
3.F.6 PUBLICATION REQUIREMENT
A publication is a requirement for candidacy in SAIM, i.e., to become a Diplomate of the
ACVIM in SAIM (section 7). However, a publication is not a mandatory requirement of an
ACVIM-approved SAIM RTP. Despite this clarification, the ACVIM expects the SI, PD, RA
and SDs to provide adequate support in the SAIM Candidate’s work towards a publication.
Moreover, if an ACVIM-approved SAIM RTP decides to specifically require a publication, a
certificate of RTP completion cannot be presented to the Candidate until the publication
requirement is fulfilled. The research and scholarly activity requirement of an ACVIM-
approved SAIM RTP may be fulfilled by an approved publication, or alternative means
(section 3.F.5).
3.F.7 JOURNAL CLUB
Small animal internal medicine residents must participate in at least 80 hours of journal club
throughout their residency. Participation via teleconferencing and programs having a joint
journal club with other programs are acceptable when necessary. At least one specialist
recognized by the ABVS, or a Diplomate of ACVIM or the ECVIM-CA, must attend each
journal club, either in person or remotely.
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Residents must keep a log of journal club activities that includes the date, article titles, and
the identity of the specialist in attendance. The log is to be submitted as part of credentials
that are reviewed by the SAIM CC. Journal club logs will be randomly audited by the SAIM
CC when a resident’s credentials are submitted.
3.F.8 DIDACTIC LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
Small animal internal medicine residents must participate in the following didactic learning
opportunities, facilitated by the SI: SAIM topic review sessions, formal conferences,
continuing education conferences, and formal examination review sessions. This Manual
allows for remote participation (primarily RACE acceptable) when necessary.
A SAIM RTP must provide at least 40 hours per year of intensive formal review sessions for
residents on topics covered in the General and SAIM Specialty Examinations. This Manual
allows for remote participation (primarily RACE acceptable) when necessary.
A SAIM RTP must provide documentation of these formal reviews to the SAIM CC in the
RTP application and annual renewal. Attending daily clinical rounds does not meet this
requirement, although structured courses and seminars may. If adequate formal review
sessions are not available on-site, a resident may meet this requirement in part by attending
or participating remotely in an ACVIM advanced continuing education (ACE) course, an
ACVIM Forum, or another high-quality continuing education meeting (with prior approval by
the SAIM CC).
Residents must also attend weekly formal conferences in SAIM and related disciplines.
Examples of these are clinicopathologic conferences or seminars. These may include
remotely presented training. Conferences given within a veterinary practice or hospital or at
a medical school or medical teaching hospital are acceptable. The resident must give a
formal presentation at such a conference or seminar series at least once per residency
year. Documentation of these presentations must be included in the Candidate’s credentials
packet.
As a substitute for the aforementioned formal presentation, the resident may present at a
regional, state, or national meeting once per residency year. A copy of the program must be
included in the Candidate’s credentials packet.
Residents must participate in, or attend, at least one state, national, or international
veterinary medical or human medical continuing education conference or meeting during
their residency. Examples might include the annual ACVIM Forum or an ACVIM-moderated
ACE conference. This Manual allows for remote participation when necessary. Intensive
endoscopy or ultrasound training courses do not fulfill the continuing education conference
or meeting requirement. Documentation of attendance, or participation in, the conference or
meeting must be included in the Candidate’s credentials packet.
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3.F.9 STUDY TIME
In addition to the 12 weeks of required research and scholarly time, an additional minimum
of 4 continuous weeks of protected and uninterrupted study time, during which the resident
is relieved of all clinic responsibilities, including the responsibility for client communications,
must be allocated to the resident and Candidate to prepare for the ACVIM General
Examination. Study time should be scheduled to immediately precede the General
Examination date as much as is practical. During study time, residents should still attend
journal club, seminars, and didactic learning opportunities as they arise. If the resident does
not take the General Examination during the second year of their RTP, some or all of this
study time may be “banked” and transferred to the third year. That banked time does not
have to be scheduled in continuous weeks; it may be provided as individual week-long
blocks of time.
A further additional minimum of 4 continuous weeks of protected and uninterrupted study
time, during which the resident is relieved of all clinic responsibilities, including the
responsibility for client communications, must be allocated to the resident and Candidate to
prepare for the SAIM Specialty Examination. Study time should be scheduled to
immediately precede the SAIM Specialty Examination date as much as is practical. During
study time, residents should still attend journal club, seminars, and didactic learning
opportunities as they arise.
Study time allocated for General and Specialty Examination preparation should be taken
during the 72-week period, not during the initial 68 weeks allocated to intensive clinical
training in SAIM or during the 16 weeks allocated to intensive clinical training in other
ACVIM specialties.
3.F.10 VACATION AND PERSONAL TIME
A SAIM resident should take vacation during the RTP that is totally separate from other
activities and requirements. Total vacation time must be a minimum of 6 weeks during a 3-
year RTP and is best allocated in 2 continuous weeks each year. However, at the request of
the resident, vacation time may be arranged differently. Vacation time should be scheduled
within the remaining 72 weeks (section 3.F.4), not during the initial 68 weeks allocated to
intensive clinical training in SAIM or during the 16 weeks allocated to intensive clinical
training in other ACVIM specialties.
Vacation must never be required to be used as a release from clinical obligations to prepare
for the General Examination or the SAIM Specialty Examination.
An RTP is expected to provide reasonable accommodation for a resident’s medical needs
(e.g., doctor’s appointments, etc.).
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3.F.11 RTP INTERRUPTION
Training interruptions may be unavoidable in circumstances where a resident must switch
from 1 RTP to another to fulfill all RTP and credentialing requirements. In such cases, the
following steps must be taken:
● A new training program must be identified.
● The SAIM RTC and the SAIM CC must approve the new RTP before the
continuation of clinical training.
● The resident must re-register with the ACVIM in the new RTP.
● The resident must complete training in continuous blocks of time once
training resumes.
In some circumstances, a resident may need to take a leave of absence for personal health
or profound family requirements that prevent them from completing the RTP in 3 years.
However, when actively engaged in the residency, the resident must be full time and
participate in at least 20 weeks of training in any residency year (a residency year is the 12-
month period beginning with the first day on which residency training is restarted) and that
training must be provided in sessions of at least 2 continuous weeks each. When a leave of
absence is necessary, the resident has a maximum of 5 years from the end of the RTP to
achieve Board-certification in SAIM.
In some cases, a resident may complete a portion of training at another approved RTP or
research unit or with a different mentor. In those cases, the second RTP or the research
unit or research mentor is a secondary training site. The SAIM RTC must approve that
relationship as part of the RTP submission, along with all appropriate supporting documents
from the primary training site.
3.F.12 RTP VARIANCES
Variances to SAIM RTPs may be permitted by the SAIM RTC, but a request for a variance
will require a detailed explanation from the PD to the SAIM RTC, and written permission
from the SAIM RTC must be granted. In general, such approval will relate to combined
residency-graduate degree programs or RTPs that include significant resident research
commitments. Variances must be approved by the SAIM RTC before the resident includes
them as part of the RTP. Documentation relating to approved variances must be included
with the Candidate’s credentials packet.
3.F.13 ONLINE EXIT INTERVIEW SURVEY
After completing the RTP, residents are strongly encouraged to fill out an online survey
regarding the quality of their residency training experience.
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Responses are shared with the appropriate PD to provide important feedback regarding
their RTP. Data, held strictly confidential, will be published as a 5-year rolling average score
per surveyed category calculated for each RTP and will be released every 3 years to ensure
the anonymity of Candidates who completed smaller programs.
4 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ASSOCIATED WITH SAIM CANDIDACY AND RTPS
These descriptions expand upon those required and discussed in the ACVIM Certification Manual, as they
pertain specifically to the specialty of SAIM.
4.A ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE SPONSORING INSTITUTION (SI)
The SI for a SAIM RTP, in partnership with the PD, RA, SDs and SSSDs, must ensure a healthy and
safe learning and working environment that promotes resident professional advancement, as well as
psychological, emotional, and physical well-being. The SI and the PD must ensure the availability of
all necessary professional, technical, and clerical personnel to best support the SAIM RTP.
A SAIM residency must take place at a specialty clinical facility where the resident provides primary
patient care appropriate to that individual’s level of training and where the resident manages cases
involving all facets of SAIM including, but not limited to, clinical pathology, pathology, diagnostic
imaging, endoscopy, and critical care.
4.A.1 SAIM SUPERVISION
In order to host an ACVIM-approved SAIM RTP, the SI must have a minimum of the
equivalent on-site presence of at least two full-time ACVIM SAIM Diplomates, or the
presence of a minimum of 1 full-time ACVIM SAIM Diplomate and 1 full-time ECVIM-CA
Diplomate. No SAIM RTP may be deliberately designed without the SI having the equivalent
on-site presence of at least two full-time ACVIM SAIM Diplomates, or the presence of a
minimum of 1 full-time ACVIM SAIM Diplomate and 1 full-time ECVIM-CA Diplomate. It is not
necessary that the two full-time Diplomates be simultaneously present at the SI at all times,
although there should be some overlap in schedules. It is acceptable, and often beneficial,
that multiple on-site SAIM or ECVIM-CA Diplomates contribute to a combined training time
that equals a minimum of 2 full-time Diplomates.
4.A.2 SECONDARY SPECIALTIES SUPERVISION
The SI must ensure residents have daily access to consultation with Board-certified
specialists in clinical pathology, imaging, and surgery.
The SI must also ensure residents can receive the required instruction in cardiology,
neurology and/or oncology, as well as radiography, ultrasonography, echocardiography, and
endoscopy, by appropriate and qualified SSSDs.
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4.A.3 FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT
In addition to the facilities and equipment outlined in the Certification Manual, section 3.C.16,
the specialty of SAIM stipulates that the SI for a SAIM RTP must have the following facilities
and equipment:
• State-of-the-art ultrasonographic, radiographic, electrocardiographic, and
endoscopic equipment.
• Laboratory facilities for performing CBCs, serum chemistry profiles, blood gas
analysis, urinalysis, cytology, parasitology, microbiology, and endocrinology. If
these facilities and capabilities are not available at the SI, then the SI must make
arrangements with local and/or regional laboratories.
• Access to CT.
• Access to MRI and nuclear medicine is highly recommended but is not required.
4.A.4 DIDACTIC LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
The SI for a SAIM RTP must commit to providing the resident with the required didactic
learning opportunities as described in section 3.F.8 of this Manual.
4.B ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF SECONDARY TRAINING SITES
A secondary training site may not supplant SI requirement for the equivalent of a minimum of at least
2 full-time ACVIM SAIM Diplomates, or the presence of a minimum of 1 full-time ACVIM SAIM
Diplomate and 1 full-time ECVIM-CA Diplomate.
If adequate personnel or facilities to fulfill requirements involving clinical pathology, basic imaging,
ultrasonography, or direct supervision in other ACVIM specialties are unavailable on-site at the SI,
the PD must make special arrangements at other facilities for a resident to fulfill all requirements. The
SAIM RTC must approve such arrangements in advance of the resident’s training at that secondary
site, which includes permission to travel. Training agreement forms for the provision of off-site
training must be submitted when requesting approval of a new program. Updated forms must be
submitted at the time of the annual renewal of an existing program. Additional information about
training sites can be found in Part One above.
If the RTP schedules training at secondary training sites during the residency, the provider(s) of this
training must complete training agreement form(s) with the SAIM RTP registration form for each new
program request and at each annual renewal of registration.
4.C ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE PROGRAM DIRECTOR (PD)
As defined in the Appendix, the SAIM program director (PD) is the individual at the SI who assumes
overall responsibility for the conduct and integrity of that institution’s RTP(s). Unlike some specialties,
the specialty of SAIM requires that a SAIM PD must be an ACVIM Diplomate in the specialty of SAIM
and must have been Board-certified for at least 4 years. A SAIM PD must also have at least 3 years
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of experience training residents, although this specific requirement of 3 years of experience training
residents will be waived for the first 3 years of a new RTP. A SAIM PD may not simultaneously serve
as a PD for an RTP in a different specialty. If a qualified PD leaves the SI, or withdraws from the
position of PD, the RTP will be placed on probation until another qualified PD is identified and/or
employed by the SI.
The PD must submit a completed RTP Registration Form online to the ACVIM office for review by the
SAIM RTC. The SAIM RTC either approves the program or provides details of those deficiencies that
must be corrected before the RTP can be approved. The SAIM RTC must approve an RTP before
the RTP accepts residents for training. Annual renewal.
The PD is also responsible for submitting the RTP Registration form each year for annual renewal, by
the date specified on the ACVIM website the ensures that signed letters of commitment for the
required time for secondary site training are submitted annually with the application for program
renewal. Specialists with whom the resident has trained must provide the PD or the RA with
documentation of this interaction.
At the time of annual program reapproval, PDs and RAs may be asked to verify resident activities.
Activities include, but are not limited to, satisfactory clinical training, interaction with consultants,
documentation of training in diagnostic imaging and clinical pathology, and documentation of study
and education participation.
The PD is responsible for ensuring that the details described in the RTP registration form/ renewal
are fulfilled, and that they meet the minimum requirements for SAIM. RTPs as described in this
Manual.
The PD ensures that substantive changes within a SAIM RTP affecting compliance with SAIM
specialty requirements must be reported to the chair of the SAIM RTC within 14 days of such a
change. Substantive changes include the following:
● Change of SDs.
● Change of RA.
● Addition or removal of a resident (e.g., dismissal, withdrawal, or relocation of a
resident between programs); relocation between programs requires review and
approval of the proposed relocation by both the SAIM RTC and SAIM CC before the
relocation occurs.
● Alteration of program duration.
● A resident switching to or from a dual specialty training program.
● A resident enrolling in an institutional graduate program.
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● Addition or removal of any secondary site training experience; the addition of
secondary sites must be accompanied by letters of commitment from the experience
providers.
The PD is also responsible for verifying some of the resident’s certification paperwork, such as the
SAIM Scholarly Activity form.
The SAIM RTC can request further information or documentation from the PD, RA, and/or an SD at
any time, if such information is deemed necessary to verify that residency training is occurring as
described in the SAIM program description form. Reporting inaccuracy may result in SAIM RTP
probation or termination.
If a PD plans to leave the RTP, the SI must notify the SAIM RTC chair of the proposed change in
directors at least 7 days before the change occurs. Failure to do so may result in the RTP being
placed on probation. Failure to respond to SAIM RTC requests for information will result in program
suspension or termination. Time served by residents in an unapproved or suspended RTP cannot
count toward the completion of a SAIM RTP.
4.D ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE RESIDENT ADVISOR (RA)
As defined in the Appendix, the SAIM resident advisor (RA) is the primary individual who monitors
the SAIM resident’s progress during residency training. A SAIM RA must be an ACVIM in the
specialty of SAIM. Additionally, a SAIM RA must have been Board-certified for at least 2 years and
must have at least 1 year of experience training residents, although the requirement for 1 year of
experience training residents will be waived for the first 3 years of a new RTP. Each SAIM RA may
not advise more than 2 residents at any one time. A SAIM RA must also be actively involved as an
SD and be substantially involved in the clinical supervision of assigned residents.
The RA is responsible for meeting with the resident semiannually to provide performance
evaluations, ensure satisfactory progress in the RTP, and provide general mentorship and support for
the resident.
The RA must document that the resident’s training has occurred as specified. RAs ensure that
residents submit documentation to the SAIM CC by the date specified on the ACVIM website and
upon completion of the RTP.
4.E ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE SUPERVISING DIPLOMATE (SD)
As defined in the Appendix, a SAIM supervising diplomate (SD) must be a Board-certified specialist
in the specialty of SAIM. Here, for SAIM SDs, Board-certified specifically refers to both ACVIM SAIM
Diplomates and ECVIM-CA Internal Medicine Diplomates. A SAIM SD must be actively involved in
the practice of SAIM, maintain clinical competency in the field, and be substantially involved in the
clinical supervision of assigned residents.
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Daily review and oversight of the resident’s patient care performance is the responsibility of the SD
and should be conducted directly between the SD and the resident. Provided that one of the two
SAIM diplomates assigned to the primary location is physically present on-site, the second SAIM
diplomate may co-participate in training via remote training when necessary.
4.F ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE RESIDENT
It is the responsibility of the resident to fulfill all the requirements of the specialty’s RTP as outlined in
this Manual, while adhering to the highest professional standards and the ACVIM’s Code of Conduct.
4.G ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE CANDIDATE
It is the responsibility of the Candidate to fulfill the requirements of the specialty’s certification
process as outlined in this Manual, while adhering to the highest professional standards and the
ACVIM’s Code of Conduct, in order to become a Diplomate of the ACVIM in the specialty of SAIM.
The certification process includes, but is not limited to, fulfilling all the requirements of the specialty’s
RTP as outlined in this Manual.
Candidates can access this Manual, other relevant information, all relevant forms, and deadlines on
the ACVIM website, or request said information from the ACVIM office.
It is the Candidate’s responsibility to be aware of all certification and RTP requirements, other
relevant information, and deadlines. It is the Candidate’s responsibility to maintain a record of all
receipts and essential documentation.
5 CLINICAL MILESTONES FOR SAIM RESIDENTS
5.A CLINICAL MILESTONES FOR FIRST-YEAR SAIM RESIDENTS
5.A.1 EXPECTATIONS REGARDING PATIENT CARE
● Residents must provide patient care that is compassionate, appropriate, and
effective.
● Residents must develop comprehensive history taking and physical exam skills.
● Residents must demonstrate the ability to evaluate and prioritize data into a
problem list and formulate a diagnostic plan with some supervision.
● Residents must be able to assess daily patient progress accurately and perform
appropriate and timely follow-up of diagnostics tests and interventions.
● Residents must have daily communication with the SD, including attending daily
service and house officer rounds.
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● Residents must develop effective communication skills accompanied by
respectful and professional behavior in all interactions with owners, referring
veterinarians, staff, and colleagues.
5.A.2 EXPECTATIONS REGARDING MEDICAL KNOWLEDGE
● Residents must demonstrate acceptable knowledge about established and
evolving biomedical and clinical sciences and be able to apply this knowledge to
patient care.
● Residents must have a basic knowledge of pathophysiology, pharmacology, and
clinical disease states.
● Residents must demonstrate a compassionate and analytical approach to
clinical situations.
● Residents must demonstrate self-directed learning and reading of the pertinent
medical literature.
● Residents must participate in organized educational activities designed to
develop or expand their medical knowledge base and to learn analytical thinking
and problem-solving skills, such as the following:
o Attending daily clinical service and house officer rounds when on SAIM
clinical service.
o Attending scheduled journal club and structured learning activities such as
departmental seminars, morbidity and mortality rounds, and other related
sessions.
o Participating in clinical service and house officer rounds when rotating
through SAIM or other specialty services (e.g., cardiology, neurology,
oncology, critical care, etc.).
o Participating in rounds specific to any service or specialty rotation in which
the resident participates (e.g., diagnostic imaging, clinical pathology, or
other activities related to the SAIM training program).
5.A.3 EXPECTATIONS REGARDING LEARNING AND IMPROVEMENT
● Residents must be able to assess and evaluate their patient care practices,
appraise and assimilate scientific evidence, and improve their patient care
practices because of these activities.
● Residents should demonstrate a willingness to acknowledge and to learn from
errors.
● Residents must participate in didactic lectures, daily house officer rounds,
journal club, and other performance improvement activities (see expectations
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regarding medical knowledge), including presentation of ACVIM review topics in
journal club at least 5 times per year.
● Residents must use available medical databases or evidence-based medicine
resources to support clinical decision-making.
● Residents must demonstrate an interest in and ability to participate in a variety
of didactic learning opportunities.
● Residents must assist in clinical teaching of veterinary students, externs, interns
(if applicable), and other house officers including providing feedback to these
individuals regarding performance, knowledge, medical recordkeeping, and
patient care as applicable.
5.A.4 EXPECTATIONS REGARDING INTERPERSONAL AND COMMUNICATION
SKILLS
● Residents should demonstrate strong interpersonal and communication skills
that result in effective information exchange and engagement with owners and
professional associates.
● Residents should develop stronger language and documentation skills (e.g.,
succinct and comprehensive case presentations, progress notes, and
comprehensive patient care plans) as they progress in training.
● Residents should provide efficient but comprehensive information exchange with
colleagues, healthcare professionals, and owners.
● Residents should develop effective listening skills.
● Residents should establish professional and ethically sound relationships with
owners and referring veterinarians.
5.A.5 EXPECTATIONS REGARDING PROFESSIONALISM
● Residents must demonstrate a commitment to carrying out professional
responsibilities, adhering to ethical principles, and possessing sensitivity to
cultural differences and preferences.
● Residents must demonstrate respect, compassion, and integrity in all
interactions with patients, owners, colleagues, and other healthcare
professionals.
● Residents must maintain a professional appearance.
● Residents must demonstrate a commitment to ethical principles pertaining to
confidentiality of patient information and informed consent.
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● Residents must demonstrate commitment to professional responsibility in
completing all medical records in a timely fashion.
● Residents must begin to develop skills in conflict resolution.
5.A.6 EXPECTATIONS REGARDING CLINICAL RESEARCH AND PUBLICATION
PRODUCTIVITY
● Residents must demonstrate an initiative to identify, participate, and complete a
clinical research study for publication under the supervision of their RA or SD.
● Residents should select a clinical research project of interest (preferably a
prospective project) in collaboration with at least one SAIM mentor. Project
selection should be made during the first 6 months of the residency program.
Preparation of a detailed research proposal (written in grant format if applicable)
is expected by the end of that time.
● Residents should assist in study design, literature review, and grant preparation
and submission (if applicable) of the selected clinical research project in
collaboration with a research mentor.
● Residents must comply with the ethical principles of research and actively
participate in writing an animal care and use protocol (if applicable).
5.B CLINICAL MILESTONES FOR SECOND- AND THIRD-YEAR SAIM RESIDENTS
5.B.1 EXPECTATIONS REGARDING PATIENT CARE
● Second- and third-year residents must continue to fulfill all requirements
expected of first-year residents.
● Second- and third-year residents must formulate independent diagnostic and
therapeutic plans with the supervision of an attending veterinarian.
● Second- and third-year residents must coordinate patient care among all
members of the healthcare team.
● Second- and third-year residents must counsel and educate owners and
referring veterinarians.
● Second- and third-year residents must develop competence in performing the
core procedural skills essential to the practice of SAIM.
5.B.2 EXPECTATIONS REGARDING MEDICAL KNOWLEDGE
● Second- and third-year residents must continue to fulfill all requirements
expected of first-year residents.
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● Second- and third-year residents must develop a deeper understanding of
disease states and their management.
● Second- and third-year residents must further develop skills in critical
assessment, reading, and interpretation of the medical literature with application
to patient care.
● Second- and third-year residents must apply knowledge of study design and
statistical methods to the appraisal of clinical studies (i.e., skills emphasized in
clinical rotations and rounds discussions).
5.B.3 EXPECTATIONS REGARDING PRACTICE-BASED LEARNING AND
IMPROVEMENT
● Second- and third-year residents must continue to fulfill all requirements
expected of first-year residents.
● Second- and third-year residents must continue developing competence in
educating owners.
● Second- and third-year residents must facilitate the learning of students and
interns (if present), other residents, and other healthcare professionals.
5.B.4 EXPECTATIONS REGARDING INTERPERSONAL AND COMMUNICATION
SKILLS
● Second- and third-year residents should continue interpersonal and
communication skills developed as first-year residents.
● Second- and third-year residents should develop effective negotiation and
leadership skills that facilitate conflict avoidance and resolution.
5.B.5 EXPECTATIONS REGARDING PROFESSIONALISM
● Second- and third-year residents should continue to refine and demonstrate
professionalism skills developed as first-year residents.
5.B.6 EXPECTATIONS REGARDING CLINICAL RESEARCH AND PUBLICATION
● Second- and third-year residents must fulfill all requirements expected of first-
year residents.
● Second- and third-year residents should initiate study implementation, including
active participation in patient recruitment and sample collection, data analysis,
and manuscript preparation.
● Second- and third-year residents should maintain focus on study completion and
troubleshoot any problems that may arise with their mentor(s).
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● Second- and third-year residents should demonstrate their research productivity
by having a published abstract, conference presentation, and accepted peer-
reviewed publication.
6 RESIDENT EVALUATION
Residents should be evaluated by the RA, based on the criteria listed in the aforementioned clinical
milestones (section 5), at least every 6 months. A standardized resident evaluation form is available on the
ACVIM website, if an RA desires to use it, but it is not mandatory to use this form. The RA should have the
resident sign the RA’s copy of the written evaluation to document that the resident received a copy of the
evaluation and had the opportunity to discuss the evaluation with the RA. If there are questions during a
program’s annual review, copies of these evaluations may be requested by the SAIM RTC.
6.A RESIDENT CASE LOGS
Residents are encouraged to keep a log of their cases for presentation to their RAs and to other SDs
during a progress review.
6.B RESIDENT PROCEDURE LOGS
Residents are encouraged to keep a log of all procedures they completed for presentation to their RAs
and other SDs during a progress review.
6.C EDUCATION LOGS
Residents are encouraged to keep a log of all seminars and didactic lectures they attended for
presentation to their RAs and other SDs during a progress review. Each log entry should include the
seminar or lecture date, topic, and presenter.
7 PUBLICATION REQUIREMENT
The specialty of SAIM requires a publication for candidacy in SAIM, i.e., to become a Diplomate of the
ACVIM in SAIM. The purpose of the publication requirement in SAIM is to ensure that Candidates develop
adequate skills in written scientific medical communication. In particular, the publication requirement’s goal
is to ensure that Candidates display an ability to organize scientific data, communicate these data in writing
accurately, and discuss scientific findings in a way that promotes the generation and dissemination of
knowledge that advances animal and human health. This goal is achieved through education, discovery,
and contributing to scientific medical literature.
7.A SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS FOR SAIM PUBLICATIONS
1. The resident or Candidate must be the first author.
2. The manuscript is published in English.
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3. The topic is relevant to the topic of SAIM. Specifically, the manuscript meaningfully impacts
the scientific understanding of a subject relevant to SAIM or is relevant to the diagnosis or
management of a clinical condition by a specialist in SAIM. Candidates are encouraged to
submit the topic to the SAIM CC in advance if there is any question about the relevance or the
specific journal so that these questions can be assessed before starting the study.
4. The manuscript must be published in a journal that is MEDLINE® indexed.
5. The journal’s peer-review process must meet or exceed the definition of a refereed journal.
Specifically, a refereed journal is one governed by policies and procedures established and
maintained by an active editorial board that requires critical review and approval of articles
submitted by at least one recognized authority on the article’s subject.
7.B ACCEPTABLE TYPES OF PUBLICATIONS
Original research publications, retrospective studies, case reports and case series, and review articles
are examples of acceptable publications provided they meet the aforementioned requirements. The
SAIM CC will not accept a manuscript that was submitted to the journal as a brief communication. If
the journal reclassifies the manuscript as such, the SAIM CC might accept this change and will
request proof of the change on behalf of the journal editor.
Book chapters, conference proceedings, clinical vignettes, and serial features (e.g., ECG of the
month, drug topic of the month) are not acceptable to fulfill the SAIM publication requirement.
7.C SUBMISSION OF THE PUBLICATION TO THE SAIM CC
A Candidate may submit their accepted publication at any time during the RTP or within 5 calendar
years of completing the RTP. Provided they meet the requirements outlined above, manuscripts that
were published within 3 years prior to the start date of the RTP may also be submitted to the SAIM CC
for consideration toward fulfillment of this requirement, providing the publication has not been used to
contribute to another qualification, e.g., Masters, PhD, ABVS or EBVS specialization.
The Candidate must meet the publication requirement before being awarded Board-certification. If the
Candidate fails to complete the publication requirement within the stated time, that individual’s status
changes from active to inactive. In addition, the resident is no longer eligible to become Board-
certified.
At the time of credentials submission, Candidates must submit a “letter of understanding” (form
available online) if the publication has not yet been accepted for credentials requirement or already
submitted to the SAIM credentials chair for review. The “letter of understanding” states that the
Candidate understands that the publication requirement must be met prior to being granted ACVIM
Diplomate status in the specialty of SAIM (i.e., Board-certification).
Whether it is submitted alone, with the other elements of the credentials application, or following
credentials submission, the Candidate should electronically send 1 of the following to the ACVIM, so
the SAIM CC can assess whether the manuscript is acceptable for the purposes of certification,
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according to the ACVIM standard definition approved by the BOR, and meets with the aforementioned
purpose of the SAIM publication requirement.
1. A copy of the manuscript published in its final form (no galley proofs, Word documents, etc.).
2. A copy of the accepted manuscript in its most advanced form (galley proof, corrected proof,
etc.) and either the final acceptance letter on letterhead from the journal or a final acceptance
email from the official email address of the journal. Any letter or email from an editor that
states there are reviewer comments to be addressed, no matter how minor the comments, will
be considered unacceptable for credentialing purposes, as it implies final review by the
reviewers has not been completed.
Candidates may proactively write a brief letter justifying how their manuscript meets the aforementioned
purpose of the publication requirement and the criteria outlined above. In some cases, after submission, the
chair of the SAIM CC may request such a letter from the Candidate.
8 THE GENERAL EXAMINATION
All ACVIM SAIM Candidates must pass the General Examination in order to be eligible to attain Diplomate
status (Board-certification). Information about the General Examination is outlined in the ACVIM
Certification Manual.
9 SAIM CREDENTIALS
Credentials approval (or conditional approval) is a prerequisite for taking the ACVIM SAIM Specialty
Examination, and for Board-certification.
9.A SAIM CREDENTIALS ELIGIBILITY, REQUIREMENTS AND SUBMISSION
***Always check the ACVIM website for the most up-to-date information before submission;
this process is subject to change.***
A Candidate who intends to take the SAIM Specialty Examination must submit credentials for the
Specialty Examination so that the ACVIM office receives the credentials packet no later than the
deadline date specified on the ACVIM website of the year preceding the year in which the Candidate
intends to take the Specialty Examination. Each Candidate is notified no later than 60 days after the
submission deadline regarding the acceptability of the submitted credentials packet and their eligibility
to take the SAIM Specialty Examination. THERE ARE NO EXCEPTIONS TO THIS DEADLINE.
CREDENTIALS PACKETS MUST BE SUBMITTED ON THE DUE DATE TO ALLOW ADEQUATE
TIME FOR REVIEW BY THE SAIM CC. CREDENTIALS PACKETS WILL NOT BE REVIEWED IF
THE CREDENTIALS FEE HAS NOT BEEN PAID BEFORE THE SUBMISSION OF THE
CREDENTIALS PACKET.
Applicant instructions for meeting the credentials requirements are available on the ACVIM website, or
by request in writing from the ACVIM office. If a Candidate has any questions regarding the
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credentials process, the Candidate should request clarification in writing from the Credentials
Committee Chair well before the credentials submission deadline.
SAIM Candidates may submit their complete SAIM credentials packet and pay the associated fee
online to the ACVIM office, to the attention of the SAIM CC chair, following the completion of 22
months of their SAIM RTP. If an individual is ACVIM Board-certified in a different specialty and is
participating in a SAIM RTP, that individual may submit credentials during the final 12 months of their
SAIM RTP.
Documentation of receipt of the Candidate’s SAIM credentials application, receipt of the paid fee, and
documentation of SAIM CC approval, with the Candidate’s unique identification number, must be
maintained by the Candidate as part of their essential documentation.
Separate receipts for each ACVIM fee paid and application acknowledgement will be provided by the
ACVIM and must be maintained by the Candidate as part of their essential documentation.
The SAIM CC evaluates submitted credentials packets for completeness and accuracy. All
Candidates must submit online the current standard SAIM application form along with the other
required documents. Inadequate attention to detail may cause the entire application to be rejected. A
Candidate with rejected credentials is not eligible to take the SAIM Specialty Examination. A
Candidate may correct identified deficiencies and resubmit credentials before the deadline date
specified on the ACVIM website for that examination cycle or wait and resubmit credentials the
following year. Each Candidate is notified no later than 60 days after the submission deadline
regarding the acceptability of the submitted credentials packet for the SAIM Specialty Examination.
Although acceptance of a manuscript for publication is not required before taking the SAIM Specialty
Examination, the Candidate is strongly encouraged to meet this SAIM RTP requirement before taking
the Specialty Examination. The Candidate will not be eligible to receive Board-certification until all
requirements outlined in sections 4 and 9 of this Manual have been completed, even if that individual
successfully passed the SAIM Specialty Examination.
9.B CREDENTIAL ITEMS TO BE SUBMITTED
***Always check the ACVIM website for the most up-to-date information before submission;
this is only a partial list and is also subject to change.***
Candidates must include the following credential items in their SAIM specialty credentials
application:
● The completed credentials application packet as described in the SAIM Credentials
Information Packet and Online Submission Instructions.
● The letter of understanding (which documents awareness of the publication
requirement) or a copy of an approved publication with a copy of the acceptance email
from the SAIM CC.
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● A letter from the RA verifying satisfactory progress in the RTP.
● Payment of the credentials fees online.
It is the Candidate’s responsibility to submit all credential items before the deadline, as late
applications will not be reviewed.
10 SAIM SPECIALTY EXAMINATION
10.A SAIM SPECIALTY EXAMINATION REGISTRATION AND FEE
Once credentials are approved, Candidates may register for the SAIM Specialty Examination and pay
the fee online to the ACVIM office by the date specified on the ACVIM website the year before they
intend to take the examination. Candidates retaking the SAIM Specialty Examination must pay online
by the date specified on the ACVIM website of the year they plan to take the examination.
Documentation of receipt of the Candidate’s SAIM Specialty Examination application, receipt of the
paid fee, and documentation of SAIM CC approval, with the Candidate’s unique identification number,
must be maintained by the Candidate as part of their essential documentation.
Separate receipts for each ACVIM fee paid and registration acknowledgement will be provided by the
ACVIM and must be maintained by the Candidate as part of their essential documentation.
10.B SAIM SPECIALTY EXAMINATION CONTENT AND FORMAT
***Always check the Candidates’ exam webpage(s) on the ACVIM website for the most up-to-
date information pertaining to ACVIM Examinations. Examination format/design, item types
and standard setting/cut score determination method(s) are subject to change, as necessary to
continue to align the examination with best practice and accreditation industry standards. Any
changes will be reflected in the current examination blueprint and/or information provided to
Candidates. ***
A blueprint of the SAIM Specialty Examination is posted on the ACVIM website at least 60
days prior to the Specialty Examination date.
11 CORRESPONDANCE, INQUIRIES, ISSUES AND COMPLAINTS
Residents and/or Candidates with queries and/or complaints regarding RTP noncompliance, especially
concerns that are not sufficiently resolved by the RTP’s PD, should direct concerns in writing to the SAIM
ombudsperson and/or to the current RTC chair. Residents can obtain the names and contact information of
these individuals from the ACVIM office or ACVIM website. A response to the query and/or complaint can
be expected within 4 weeks. Assistance from the SAIM ombudsperson can also be sought for situations
that are difficult to resolve. The SAIM ombudsperson can be contacted directly by email at
SAIMOmbuds@ACVIM.org. The ACVIM can only address matters related to adherence to this Manual’s
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requirements. Personnel matters are unique to each SI and its Human Resources policies and procedures
and are not subject to ACVIM review.
12 MAINTENANCE OF CREDENTIALS (MOC)
As discussed in the Certification Manual every Diplomate who completed credentials and became a
Diplomate on, or after, January 1, 2016, is awarded a Diplomate certificate that is valid for 10 years. These
ACVIM SAIM Diplomates are subject to MOC. The MOC requirements are posted on the ACVIM website.
The SAIM maintenance of credentials committee (SAIM MOC) maintains a list of acceptable continuing
education experiences and their associated points that count toward the renewal of SAIM credentials by the
ACVIM. This information is available on the ACVIM website, or by request from the ACVIM office. It is the
responsibility of each ACVIM SAIM Diplomate to maintain documentation of these activities.
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APPENDIX A: IMPORTANT DEFINITIONS
NON-TRADITIONAL TRAINING IN SMALL ANIMAL INTERNAL MEDICINE
A non-traditional SAIM RTP is a program that is approved by the SAIM RTC and that is intentionally non-
continuous. For the specialty of SAIM, non-traditional training programs are discouraged, but it is possible
to achieve Board-certification by completing a non-traditional RTP. The SAIM specialty stipulates that in a
non-traditional residency, all the specialty’s requirements for residency training must be met, and that all
training must take place within clearly defined, continuous blocks of training time. A non-traditional RTP
may be a maximum of 5 years in duration. The SAIM RTC must approve the RTP before the resident or
Candidate commences the RTP.
The SI must provide thorough justification and a comprehensive plan for a non-traditional training residency
to the SAIM RTC, including:
● How all requirements for a traditional RTP in SAIM will be met during the non-
traditional RTP, including the following:
o On-site full-time supervision by two ACVIM Diplomates or 1 ACVIM and 1
ECVIM-DA Diplomate at the SI.
o Supporting disciplines and facilities and equipment required on-site at the SI.
o Didactic learning opportunities.
o Research and scholarly activities.
o Vacation, release time for General and SAIM Specialty Examinations, and
journal club.
● If any training occurs at secondary sites, their locations, schedules of attendance by
the resident, and letters from all SDs and SSSDs at the SI and all secondary training
sites must be provided confirming their commitment to the non-traditional RTP.
● A commitment that training will occur in noncontiguous blocks of time occur in no less
than 2 continuous weeks for each training period during the non-traditional RTP.
● Documentation from residents and their program directors (PDs), RAs, SDs and
SSSDs that training occurred as specified.
● Submission of a request for approval of a non-traditional RTP at least 90 days in
advance of a residency’s start date.
● Approval of the program in advance of the start date by the SAIM RTC.
● Completion of the non-traditional residency within 5 years.
● Achievement of Diplomate status after completion of the non-traditional RTP within 5
years.
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● A report of any change to the non-traditional RTP that deviates from the training
schedule of the approved RTP plan to the SAIM RTC within 14 days of the change.
SAIM CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE (SAIM CC)
The SAIM CC evaluates a SAIM Candidate’s progress during the ACVIM certification candidacy period,
including completion of RTP requirements, General and Specialty Examination results, and fulfillment of
any additional credentials requirements, such as the resident’s logs and publication requirement. The SAIM
CC is responsible for reviewing the SAIM Candidate’s credentials packet and certifying that a Candidate
meets all the requirements for becoming a Diplomate of the ACVIM in SAIM.
SAIM OMBUDSPERSON
Candidates and residents may contact the SAIM ombudsperson at SAIMOmbudsperson@ACVIM.org. All
communications are held in strict confidence.
SAIM PROGRAM DIRECTOR (PD)
The SAIM program director (PD) is the individual at the SI who assumes overall responsibility for the
conduct and integrity of that institution’s RTP(s). Unlike some specialties, the specialty of SAIM requires
that a SAIM PD must be an ACVIM Diplomate in the specialty of SAIM and must have been Board-certified
for at least 4 years. A SAIM PD must also have at least 3 years of experience training residents, although
this specific requirement of 3 years of experience training residents will be waived for the first 3 years of a
new RTP. A SAIM PD may not simultaneously serve as a PD for an RTP in a different specialty. If a
qualified PD leaves the SI, or withdraws from the position of PD, the RTP will be placed on probation until
another qualified PD is identified and/or employed by the SI.
SAIM RESIDENCY TRAINING COMMITTEE (RTC)
The SAIM residency training committee (RTC) specifies the residency training criteria that must be met for
certification. The SAIM RTC reviews and approves all new SAIM RTPs. The SAIM RTC reviews and
approves for renewal each registered SAIM RTP annually. The SAIM RTC also reviews any significant
changes in a SAIM RTP (e.g., change in PD or resident advisor (RA), a resident or Candidate’s early
termination or failure to complete an RTP, alterations in program duration or content, and locations of
secondary training sites) and notifies the SAIM CC of the approved changes. These reviews are normally
based on documents submitted by the PD; however, if questions arise, the SAIM RTC may solicit
supplemental documentation from other individuals who have knowledge of a particular RTP. The SAIM
RTC also handles questions from the residents and Candidates or PDs regarding the interpretation of this
Manual’s guidelines.
SAIM RESIDENT ADVISOR (RA)
The SAIM resident advisor (RA) is the primary individual who monitors the SAIM resident’s progress during
residency training. A SAIM RA must be an ACVIM in the specialty of SAIM. Additionally, a SAIM RA must
have been Board-certified for at least 2 years and must have at least 1 year of experience training
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residents, although the requirement for 1 year of experience training residents will be waived for the first 3
years of a new RTP. Each SAIM RA may not advise more than 2 residents at any one time. A SAIM RA
must also be actively involved as an SD and be substantially involved in the clinical supervision of assigned
residents.
SAIM SECONDARY-SPECIALTY SUPERVISING DIPLOMATE (SSSD)
A SAIM secondary-specialty supervising diplomate (SSSD) for a SAIM RTP must be a Board-certified
veterinary specialist in any specialty other than SAIM, who is contributing to the training of the SAIM
resident in any specialty other than SAIM. Here Board-certified refers to any veterinary specialists certified
by an ABVS or EBVS registered veterinary specialty or registered veterinary specialty organization. The
Board-certified veterinary specialist must be in good standing with the relevant ABVS or EBVS registered
veterinary specialty or registered veterinary specialty organization. A SAIM SSSD must be actively involved
in their area of specialty, maintain competency in the field, and be substantially involved in the training of
assigned residents.
SAIM SUPERVISING DIPLOMATE (SD)
A SAIM supervising diplomate (SD) must be a Board-certified specialist in the specialty of SAIM. Here, for
SAIM SDs, Board-certified specifically refers to both ACVIM SAIM Diplomates and ECVIM-CA Internal
Medicine Diplomates. A SAIM SD must be actively involved in the practice of SAIM, maintain clinical
competency in the field, and be substantially involved in the clinical supervision of assigned residents.
SUPERVISION OF RESIDENCY TRAINING
DIRECT SUPERVISION
Direct supervision is defined by the ACVIM as having the SD(s) or SSSD(s) and resident
participating in clinical practice together, wherein both the SD(s) or SSSD(s) and the resident are
on the clinic floor, interactively and concurrently managing cases. The SD(s) or SSSD(s) need not
personally examine each patient seen by the resident, but must review the case with the resident,
and must remain physically available on-site for face-to-face consultation with the resident
throughout the day.
INDIRECT SUPERVISION
Indirect supervision refers to circumstances wherein the SD(s) or SSSD(s) and resident, although
participating in a clinical practice together, are not on the clinic floor simultaneously, and are not
concurrently managing cases. Indirect supervision does imply a level of interactive case
management. The SD(s) or SSSD(s) must be immediately available for consultation and direct
supervision when needed by the resident.
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REMOTE SUPERVISION
Remote supervision is the use of technology, such as tele- or videoconferencing (e.g., Zoom, MS
Teams, Skype, etc.) to facilitate some level of interactive resident supervision. Remote supervision,
as defined by the ACVIM, is best suited to on-line interactive rounds, journal club, and seminars,
but may be utilized to contribute to additional resident training requirements (e.g., clinical case
management where the supervisor and resident are not on-site together, therefore not immediately
available for direct supervision when needed by the Candidate). The type and extent of any remote
supervision must be defined in the RTP application and/or annual renewal.
REMOTE TRAINING / EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCES
Remote training is the use of technology, such as tele- or videoconferencing (e.g., Zoom, MS
Teams, Skype, etc.) to facilitate some aspects of resident education and/or training. Remote
training, as defined by the ACVIM, best applies to on-line classes, seminars and conferences,
where there is minimal to no interaction. The type and extent of remote training must be defined in
the RTP application and/or annual renewal.
TRAINING TIMES / TRAINING WEEKS
A SAIM RTP must have a resident working at least 40 hours over a minimum of 4 days in a 7 contiguous
day period for it to count as 1 training week of a SAIM RTP. This time includes emergency duties and
patient care on weekends. Four weeks constitutes 1 month of resident training.
