Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 2nd August 2024
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

BVA pushes for holistic approach to RCVS governance reform
The recommendations were submitted as part of a consultation from RCVS on the issue.
It has published recommendations for an integrated package.

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has published its recommendations for reform of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons’ (RCVS’) governance, as it calls for a more holistic approach.

BVA has published its policy position following the closure of the regulatory body’s consultation on the issue. BVA’s response to the consultation included its recommendations, as well as highlighting the importance of them being delivered as a complete package.

Among the recommendations is the suggestion that RCVS Council members, whether veterinary or lay, should be appointed rather than elected. This would follow an open and competitive process, as well as an independent assessment against a clear set of competences.

It believes that RCVS’ regulatory governance should be more in line with the best practice that is seen in human healthcare regulations. This includes fewer council members and a more balanced composition of registrants and lay members.

It says that the college should submit to external scrutiny, against similar standards to the Professional Standards Agency, and publish the results. It should also strive for greater clarity and transparency, including organisational identities, governance and the activities it considers Royal College and Regulatory functions.

BVA recommends that allied professions which are regulated by RCVS should be able to have their own dedicated council, similar to the VN Council.

A separate, elected governing council for RCVS’ Royal College function is also recommended, which would focus on the veterinary surgeon and veterinary nursing professions. BVA suggests allied professions establish their own equivalents to the Royal College if needed.

Anna Judson, president of the BVA, said: “If we are to have a thriving veterinary profession, a new Veterinary Surgeons Act is vital and sitting alongside it we need a modern regulator with effective governance.

“BVA’s recommendations, if delivered as a holistic package, would bring greater clarity to the RCVS’ dual roles as both a regulator and a Royal College; they would improve transparency around process and decision-making, and would ensure that RCVS has the right balance of skills and experience needed to operate effectively, in line with similar modern healthcare regulators”.

The full response can be read here.

Image © Shutterstock 

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

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.