Practice Standards Scheme: New manual
Following a five-year review, a new manual for the Practice Standards Scheme is now live. The new manual, which includes updated standards, came into force on April 1, 2010, and was formally launched at BSAVA Congress on April 10. Accredited practices will be given time to comply.
The review was carried about the Practice Standards Group (PSG), chaired by Jill Nute, which comprises representatives from all of the key veterinary and veterinary nursing organisations.
The objective of the review was to learn from the first five years of the scheme and ensure that the standards continue to represent better practice. The PSG took into account what a member of the public might reasonably expect of a well-equipped and professional practice, and also consulted widely with the profession.
The manual has a new layout, including guidance shown next to the appropriate standard, and icons to indicate the provenance of the standard (i.e. The Guide to Professional Conduct, legislation or better practice). It also incorporates information previously found in separate publications, such as the documents checklist.
Within the standards, there is a greater focus on clinical outcome and training. Inspectors will also focus on ensuring that protocols are embedded within the practice's daily routines.
In addition, the "tiers" (one, two or three) have been dropped, because this was found to be confusing to the public and, at times, the profession. The categories retain their descriptive names, for example, Small Animal General Practice or Equine Veterinary Hospital.
Visit www.rcvs.org.uk/newPSSmanual to download the new manual, or visit www.rcvs.org.uk/ear_ear to view the launch presentation from BSAVA Congress.
Follow vetsonline on
Search archives and news
Management award
The search is now on for the 2012 Practice Manager of the Year. Download an application pack to nominate a colleague!
COMPETITIONS
