AMTRA speaks of growing support for RAMA title
Stephen Dawson, AMTRA secretary-general.
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.
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. 
