The Digital Revolution in Veterinary Medicine: How Dr. Azza Diasti-Kennedy Plans to Lead the Charge
In the ever-evolving landscape of veterinary medicine, Dr. Azza Diasti-Kennedy emerges as a beacon of innovation, fusing her profound love for animal care with the advancing tides of technology. Her journey over the past twenty years as a practicing veterinarian in Tampa, Florida, encapsulates not just professional excellence but also an unwavering commitment to bringing about transformative changes in the field.
Embarking on a Journey of Excellence and Innovation
Dr. Diasti-Kennedy's voyage in veterinary medicine commenced at Lakeside Animal Hospital in 2001, a place where she not only practiced but evolved, specializing in small animal medical and surgical care. Her dedication led her to delve deeper into the field, gaining certification in animal acupuncture from the Chi Institute of Chinese Medicine and completing a Dentistry Externship at Cornell University. Under her stewardship, Lakeside Animal Hospital achieved the coveted American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) certification, joining the elite ranks of less than 15% of animal hospitals in North America to hold this honor.
Entrepreneurial Ventures and Strategic Decisions
Beyond her veterinary pursuits, Dr. Diasti-Kennedy's entrepreneurial flair flourished as she co-owned Coast Dental, one of the largest dental providers in Florida. Her role on the Board of Directors and Executive Committee showcased her ability to blend medical expertise with business acumen. In a strategic move in 2018, she sold her practice to American Veterinary Group (AVG), stepping into the role of an investor and an insightful observer in the domain of veterinary business.
Tackling the Shifting Dynamics of Veterinary Practice
Dr. Diasti-Kennedy's career has spanned a period of significant transformation in veterinary medicine. Notably, the field has seen a shift to being predominantly female-led, accompanied by growing emotional and financial challenges for veterinary professionals. The COVID-19 pandemic further amplified the need for accessible and high-quality pet care, as pet ownership surged and pet owners became more attuned to the needs of their animal companions.
A Visionary’s Return to Academia
Driven by her innovative spirit and recognizing the potential of technology in reshaping veterinary practice, Dr. Diasti-Kennedy returned to the world of academia. She pursued and achieved an Executive Masters in Business Administration and a certificate in Business Analytics from the Sloan School of Management at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). This educational endeavor was a stepping stone towards her goal of revolutionizing pet care through technology.
Unveiling a Pioneering Telehealth Platform for Pets
Dr. Diasti-Kennedy stands on the cusp of launching a groundbreaking veterinary care telehealth platform, a project brought to life with the collaboration of fellow MIT graduates. This platform is set to transform the landscape of pet healthcare, offering pet owners an all-encompassing solution for managing their pets' health. The platform enables pet owners to easily access veterinary advice and support, thereby simplifying the process of pet care and making it more accessible than ever.
As Dr. Diasti-Kennedy prepares to launch this revolutionary platform, her story serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of innovation, dedication, and vision in driving meaningful change. Her journey is not just about veterinary medicine; it's about shaping a future where technology and care converge to create better lives for pets and their owners alike.
