What is the practice act?
What is the practice act?
Every state has a law that determines how veterinary medicine will be practiced in that state
Where are CVT’s and Vet Asst’s mentioned/defined in the MN practice act?
Where are CVT’s and Vet Asst’s mentioned/defined in the MN practice act?
Nowhere – at this time the only personnel that are listed are veterinarians
Do other states have techs defined in their practice act?
Do other states have techs defined in their practice act?
Yes, MN is only one of about 14 states that do not define credentialed veterinary technicians in their Practice Act.
Why should CVT’s and Vet Asst’s be included in the practice act?
Why should CVT’s and Vet Asst’s be included in the practice act?
The main reason to include veterinary technicians in the Practice Act is for the safety of the public. Having designations of veterinary support staff in the Practice Act and defining the duties that should only be performed by credentialed veterinary technicians ensures that: Only educated people (graduates), who have achieved a measurable standard of competency (passed certification exam) will be performing the tasks and providing information to pet owners that will impact the safety of people and pets.
Are there any other potential benefits?
Are there any other potential benefits?
- This will ultimately benefit the practice of veterinary medicine in the areas of public health and safety, especially with issues such as zoonotic diseases, infectious diseases, biosecurity and terrorism, and food safety becoming concerns with the general public
- Our state will have more standardized patient care and veterinary processes
- Increased recognition/knowledge of CVT’s and the veterinary health care team
- Improved retention of CVT’s in the profession
Are there any drawbacks?
Are there any drawbacks?
- Technicians could potentially be fined or lose their credentials if found guilty of any wrongdoing
- Likely increase in certification dues to pay for increased fees of regulation
- Possible business hardship to DVM’s who may have difficulty recruiting CVT’s
What will happen to non-certified vet techs and vet assistants that have been working as veterinary technicians?
What will happen to non-certified vet techs and vet assistants that have been working as veterinary technicians?
A grandfather clause will need to be determined; this is decided by the Legislators. We are supportive of a lenient grandfather clause.
How can I get involved?
How can I get involved?
Inform veterinary staff about our initiative to be included in the MN Practice Act, and gain their support. Educate the general public about the crucial roles that credentialed vet techs and vet assistants play in their pet's welfare. If we are able to get support to amend the Practice Act, we will need you to contact your legislators in the future.
