College Connection Spring 2016 | Page 2

college connection LEGISLATIVE REFORM Share your thoughts ... CONSULTATIONS BEGIN ON LEGISLATIVE REFORM CONCEPTS The College is pleased to launch consultations on initial concepts for the next generation of the Veterinarians Act. At its March meeting, Council approved three concepts for consultation with the profession and the public. These items include: • Adoption of a single screening process for all concerns, complaints and reports that are brought to the College’s attention. • Establishment of a mandatory Quality Assurance program in the Veterinarians Act. • Expansion of the items included on the College’s Public Register. The College looks forward to hearing your thoughts on the proposed concepts and encourages you to provide your feedback online. For further information on each concept and to share your ideas, visit www.cvo.org/public-consultations. A review of its governing legislation is one of the most significant tasks that can be undertaken by a regulatory College. The Veterinarians Act was enacted in the late 1980s. It’s no surprise the profession, public expectations and self-regulation have all evolved significantly over the past 25 years. Improving transparency, quality assurance and efficiency in the investigation process are the initial drivers for legislative change. Learn more Legislative reform is a “big deal” and one that involves the profession and the public. Learn more about legislative reform, the College’s process, the opportunities for involvement and the consultations. www.cvo.org/Legislative-Reform MEMBERS’ FORUM FOCUSES ON LEGISLATIVE REFORM The College hosted its Annual General Meeting and Members’ Forum in conjunction with the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association’s Annual Conference in January. Appr oximately 50 veterinarians attended the College’s meeting. The Members’ Forum focused on legislative reform with the topic “Boring or Invigorating: Straight Talk on the Future of Regulation and Veterinary Medicine in Ontario.” College Registrar and CEO Jan Robinson delivered the presentation which outlined the College’s approach to the process, the guiding principles and the opportunities for licensed members’ to contribute. The Registrar identified key challenges with the current version of the Veterinarians Act, including a lack of support for transparency, an absence of a mandatory quality assurance program, an absence of focus on efficiency, and also a lack of attention to current practice risks and accountability. During the discussion, licensed members in attendance were asked to consider whether the guiding principles for the endeavour are clear and logical, and how best to consult with the profession on recommendations related to reforming the Veterinarians Act. Those in attendance indicated the importance of keeping the profession informed and involved as the process unfolds. The College appreciates the input received during the session. If you missed the Members’ Forum, Ms. Robinson’s presentation is available for your review at: www.cvo.org/Legislative-Reform. PROFESSIONALS HEALTH PROGRAM Confidential Ontario Toll-free Line: 1-800-851-6606 http://php.oma.org The Professionals Health Program is a free, confidential service. The PHP provides prompt advice and support to veterinarians and/or their family members. Stay Well - Your health is important to your competence. 2 / College Connection Professionals Health Program