In her new position, Dr. McConnell will oversee all medical-related decisions at the Company, including the implementation of VPI’s underwriting guidelines and rules. She will direct the company’s product development department, and will be VPI’s primary representative to the veterinary community.

“Formerly a practicing veterinarian, Dr. McConnell understands the treatment and practice management needs of the veterinary community and the business requirements of the pet health insurance industry,” said Drent. “Having that unique blend of knowledge and experience will be very valuable to VPI, our customers and veterinarians.

“VPI was originally funded by a group of several hundred veterinarians, and we currently have 10 veterinarians and more than 60 veterinary technicians on staff. Having Dr. McConnell on our executive management team will ensure that the veterinary profession’s perspectives and ideas receive the highest level of consideration and attention,” Drent added.

Dr. McConnell will oversee all underwriting activities at VPI, including the creation and implementation of the Company’s underwriting guidelines and rules. She will lead the Company’s new product development department, as VPI expands its product portfolio. As VPI’s senior veterinarian, Dr. McConnell will coordinate with all internal veterinarians and the outside veterinary community to understand and articulate their perspectives on the Company’s business.

Prior to joining VPI, Dr. McConnell was with ALZA Pharmaceuticals and Priority Veterinary Consultants, a veterinary practice management consulting firm. She practiced veterinary medicine for three years at a Delaware veterinary hospital, and was a guest lecturer at the University of Pennsylvania and a veterinary radiology department fellow at UC Davis. She has also authored a number of works on veterinary practice management, including The Veterinary Receptionist Training Manual.

Dr. McConnell is the recipient of several awards, including an American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) award for promoting the veterinary profession. She is a member of the AVMA, and the Association of Veterinary Practice Management Consultants and Advisors (AVPMCA). She holds a Bachelor of Science from Cornell University, a Master of Business Administration from Purdue University and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from UC Davis.