Survey reveals high engagement with animal medicines advisors
AMTRA is appointed by the Secretary of State of keep its register of Registered Animal Medicines Advisors, or RAMAs
A new, independent survey commissioned by regulatory body AMTRA on the understanding of Registered Animal Medicines Advisors (RAMAs) has revealed a high level of engagement and understanding among industry professionals and the farming community.
AMTRA (Animal Medicines Training Regulatory Authority) is a not-for-profit organisation appointed by the Secretary of State to keep its register of RAMAs (Registered Animal Medicines Advisors), also known as SQPs. Responsible for some 7,000 RAMAs, AMTRA's obligations include an effective disciplinary process to take action in the case of anyone not following the SQP Code of Practice, together with a mandatory system of CPD.
Respondents to the anonymous telephone survey included professional industry bodies, animal health charities, medicines manufacturers, farmers and influencers within the farming community. Of these, 100 per cent said they recognised the importance of AMTRA RAMAs in providing advice to farmers, while 72 per cent said they were aware of the available training and support.
Respondents to the survey were asked a series of 12 questions and were invited to comment on both their personal and professional engagement with AMTRA and RAMAs. The results show a clear understanding of the importance of AMTRA RAMAs in medicines distribution, including wormers and vaccines, and providing advice on resistance.
“Principally, the aim of this survey was for us to get a snapshot and evaluate the perceived performance of both AMTRA and our RAMAs within our industry, importantly including the views of farmers,” explained Stephen Dawson, AMTRA secretary-general.
“We are delighted with the overwhelmingly positive feedback we have received, but this exercise has also been important in identifying areas which can be improved, or indeed where messages need to be amplified to create and raise awareness.”
He added: “While there is a good understanding of the training and CPD undertaken by RAMAs, we see the opportunities to work with industry partners, for example, to raise awareness amongst the wider farming community, about their important role in the distribution of animal medicines.
“The challenge is to achieve greater awareness amongst industry, to ultimately encourage greater farmer adoption of this valuable RAMA resource.”
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
