The Center for Animal and Human Health in Appalachia (CAHA) within Lincoln Memorial University’s Richard A. Gillespie College of Veterinary Medicine (LMU-CVM) conducts research across a wide array of One Health topics with implications within the Appalachian region.
COVID-19
The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) Emergency Veterinary Network served as a resource site for the more than 180 member countries on COVID-19 issues. More than 10 LMU-CVM students evaluated over 1,200 One Health articles writing 64 summary papers for use by WOAH member countries for their COVID-19 response.
Veterinary Workforce
The CAHA developed a Veterinary Workforce Dashboard to evaluate workforce requirements within the Appalachian region. Our tool provides customizable maps and a calculator tool to assess workforce estimates in specific areas. This information can be used to assess shortage areas that would qualify for the USDA Veterinary Medical Loan Repayment program, enhance animal health and productivity, and plan for emergency response. The results of this dashboard research have been presented in national and international venues and served as a model for WOAH to develop a workforce tool.
Mental Health
Mental health is a significant issue impacting the veterinary profession. Researchers for the CAHA have studied the scope of mental health issues in veterinary students and incorporated findings into wellness programs. A global survey on mental health in veterinary responders was completed, and the results have been used to promote the development of policies to better support the profession internationally. CAHA has conducted qualitative research on work satisfaction in the equine veterinary profession, which has especially high rates of burnout and attrition.
Parasites and Microbes
Parasites and microbes pose significant health risks to companion and livestock animals and are often zoonotic. We investigated the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in dog parks across Knoxville, TN, and surrounding rural counties. Our findings indicate that rural areas had a higher rate of parasite contamination compared to the Knoxville area, suggesting potential differences in access to veterinary care and anthelmintic treatments.
Drs. Lauren Wisnieski, Matt Kolp, Melissa Loy, and Don Noah at US Animal Health Association Meeting. Inset: dashboard screenshot.
Citation: American Journal of Veterinary Research 2025; 10.2460/ajvr.24.12.0381
Student Research
Student involvement in research is a core principle of our research philosophy. Our DVM students actively participate in every step of the research process. Students present their findings in meetings and peer-reviewed journals. Over 64 students have participated in research activities over the last 2 years.
ORCID
L. Wisnieski https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2915-2529
