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Deadline looming to submit views on PSS
keyboard and stethoscope
The final consultation closes on Monday, March 23 at 5pm.
RCVS seeking opinions on revised Practice Standards Scheme

Only a few days remain to submit views on the revised Practice Standards Scheme (PSS), which will likely be implemented in November this year.

The PSS review is now in the final stages of a consultation which closes at 5pm on Monday, March 23. Members of the profession are being asked to take part in an online survey and provide feedback on some of the finer details, such as the details of the new awards and weightings given to clauses in the awards section.

RCVS Council approved the development of a new PSS structure in June 2013, in response to criticism that the scheme is not focused enough on care standards, is burdensome to small practices and poorly understood by clients.

Under the revised scheme, extra awards will be introduced over and above the basic accreditations of core, general practice and veterinary hospital. Awards will be available at either "good" or "outstanding", in a similar format to Ofsted school inspections. Practices can choose to be inspected for some, all or none of these awards.

Nursing specific modules will also be introduced in the new framework.

Inspectors will instead be known as "assessors" and all current PSS inspectors will need to reapply and undergo training in the new "behavioural approach" of the scheme. Around 20 assessor posts will be available and the college will also recruit a lead assessor to monitor inspections and provide guidance.

A bespoke IT system will allow practices to apply online for the scheme, upload documents required for accreditation and set reminders.

Annual fees will rise to a maximum of £350+VAT for principle premises and £100+VAT for branches.

Practices that are already part of the scheme will be automatically transferred to the new PSS at their current level.

To submit your views: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/pssreview

For more information on the revised PSS: http://www.rcvs.org.uk/about-us/consultations/our-consultations/pss-review-final-stage-consultation/

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Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BSAVA announces 12th Edition of the Small Animal Formulary

The BSAVA has published an updated edition of its Small Animal Formulary, which includes new drug monographs and emergency drug doses for rabbits, rodents, birds and reptiles.

One of BSAVA's most trusted and widely used clinical resources, this 12th edition of the manual also includes seven new client information leaflets and information on drugs used for the management of urinary incontinence.

Part A of the Formulary, Canine and Feline, sees Fergus Allerton return as Editor-in-Chief, while Part B: Exotic Pets was edited by Joanna Hedley. For more information, visit the BSAVA website.