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AMTRA speaks of growing support for RAMA title
Stephen Dawson, AMTRA secretary-general.
Organisation says increasing numbers of industry bodies are supporting the move.

The Animal Medicines Training Regulatory Authority (AMTRA) has spoken of the growing support for the title of ‘Registered Animal Medicines Advisors’ (RAMAs), ahead of what could be an official change when the UK Veterinary Medicines Regulations (VMR) are updated in 2023. 

The not-for-profit organisation, which is appointed by Defra to keep a register of Suitably Qualified Persons (SQPs), says that increasing numbers of industry bodies are supporting the move and introducing the term, including the AHDA, NADIS, SCOPS, COWS and Zoetis. 

SQPs are legally are entitled to prescribe and/or supply certain veterinary medicines (POM-VPS and NFA-VPS) under the Veterinary Medicines Regulations. However, AMTRA believes that formally changing the title to RAMA would better reflect and recognise the crucial role of registered professionals qualified.
 
Stephen Dawson, AMTRA secretary-general explains: “We are delighted to see so many other industry organisations, bodies and animal health companies now adopting the title RAMA and wanting to help the push for an official name change.

“This is a subject that has been on our radar for some time, as we do not feel the name SQP reflects the abilities of those that have passed through the training and qualification, and also maintain their CPD and ongoing learning. Animal owners do not understand the initials ‘SQP’ but nor do they understand ‘Suitably Qualified Person’, which is very vague.

He continued: “Registered Animal Medicines Advisor, or RAMA, more accurately qualifies the important role these individuals play in part of a wider animal health plan, and we are pleased to see the enthusiasm across the sector to support the move.”

AMTRA is currently engaging with the Veterinary Medicines Directorate on future regulatory changes and how the title change can be achieved.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.