The Government has set out its intention to reform the veterinary profession by launching a public consultation on new legislation.
A proposed update to the Veterinary Surgeons Act would require vet practices to publish price lists for common treatments and be transparent about options for pet owners. Every vet practice will need an official operating licence, similar to GP surgeries and care homes, and would be required to disclose their ownership so pet owners know if their local practice is part of a larger chain or independent.
Also proposed is a new form of regulatory oversight of veterinary businesses, in addition to individual vets, so the responsibility for upholding standards is shared and clear.
Government department Defra, which is guiding the proposals, said that change is needed as 60% of vet practices are owned by non-vets, with many operating under “unclear ownership structures”. The reforms propose a new licensing system requiring businesses to meet clear standards, alongside a modern disciplinary process with enforcement action, including potential loss of licence, where they fail to do so.
The proposed legislation follows an investigation into the sector by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), which identified a number of concerns about the industry including a lack of transparency regarding treatment options and pricing, a lack of redress when issues arise, and an “outdated” regulatory framework that applies only to veterinary professionals and not to the businesses owning the practices.
The CMA has yet to publish its full findings but has completed a consultation process on its proposed remedies, many of which have been included in the government’s announcement.
Martin Coleman, chair of the CMA Inquiry Group, welcomed the announcement, saying:
“We welcome the government’s consultation to update this vital regulation and protect pet owners. Our vets investigation is ongoing, but we have already set out our strong concern that the current rules are not fit for purpose and need reforming to keep pace with commercial practice and further build pet owner trust in veterinary businesses.”
Animal Welfare Minister Baroness Hayman added: “Pets are part of the family, and owners deserve clear information, fair treatment and confidence in the care their animals receive.
“We’re focused on making vet services work better for families by improving transparency, increasing choice and helping people make informed decisions, while continuing to support the professionals who care for our animals.”
The consultation, which is available under the title of Reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966, will run for eight weeks.
