The future of specialty practice.

The delivery of veterinary care to companion animals by board-certified clinical specialists in private practice in the United States has grown dramatically since 1990. Virtually all mid-sized to large metropolitan areas are served by clinical specialists, frequently in multiple locations. Private specialty practice is highly fragmented, and very few data exist regarding the dynamics of this segment of the profession. This article is based on the personal opinions of the author, acquired through observation and experience.