Local veterinary issues debated at Question Time in Kendal

Veterinary surgeons, veterinary nurses and practice staff from Cumbria and beyond had the opportunity to put their questions to local colleague and RCVS President Professor Sheila Crispin, and the panel of Officers, at RCVS Question Time on Tuesday 7 November.

Over 50 guests enjoyed a buffet meal and the chance to meet colleagues and have a drink in the informal atmosphere of the Castle Green Hotel before the meeting started. 

Sheila, who lives on a smallholding near Kendal, started off the evening by explaining the role and objectives of the RCVS and giving an update on key activities, before inviting guests to put their questions to the panel.

A large number of questions had been submitted in writing in advance and it was not possible to respond to them all during the meeting.  A range of topical veterinary issues were raised, starting with a discussion on the admission criteria for students applying to veterinary school, and how best to ensure they meet the requirements of the profession as it is today, particularly those of rural practice.

A good number of veterinary nurses (VNs) attended the meeting and raised questions on topics including VN training, the VN enrolment fee and what it includes, Nursing Care Plans and self-regulation of VNs. A number of veterinary surgeons at the meeting raised concerns about the difficulties of training nurses in their practices.

Chairman of the RCVS VN Council, Andrea Jeffery, was present to explain the areas of work that the VN department at the RCVS covers and update the guests on the timetable for implementation of the non-statutory Register.

The questions then moved on to the Veterinary Surgeons Act, the purchase of medicines over the internet, regulation of paraprofessionals and the ability of practices to maintain 24-hour cover in light of the proposed changes to the Working Time Directive. This led on to a lively discussion about the Practice Standards Scheme.

In closing, Sheila thanked guests for coming to the meeting, which had been a particularly special occasion for her, being the first Question Time of her Presidential year and in Cumbria.

She commented that not only was it good to see so many friends and colleagues, but it was very useful to hear comments and debate the areas of the profession that are particularly important to local members and of relevance to the wider activities of the college.

She regretted that there had been insufficient time to deal with all the questions from the audience and no opportunity for an open forum discussion.

A full report of the meeting will be available in due course.