No vet is ‘just a general practitioner’

Abstract

quality continuing professional development (CPD) being offered to veterinary GPs, should we just accept this training and move on, or use it to stimulate our own interest in contributing to the profession? First-opinion practice has altered rapidly over the last 20–30 years; practices were often the epitome of one-stop shops and referral was less common, and the senior partners in practice were the tutors for their assistants. Where the British Veterinary Association and British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) congresses were the only regular large meetings, there are now many regional congresses. CPD was to a large extent left to a vet’s conscience, but we are moving towards a much more formal requirement; the Professional Development Phase for new graduates is one such initiative. While the nominal CPD requirement of 105 hours over three years is not yet strictly compulsory, there are movements toward such an obligation. Already, we must demonstrate our commitment to CPD for our practices to achieve a pass in the Practice Standards Scheme, or, if we wish to further our careers, by taking a certificate. There is a positive view of the current situation for vets in general practice. The encouragement to undertake further qualifications, whether following the Cert AVP route, the BSAVA’s PgCert qualification, or the accreditation offered via other CPD providers ensures that we continue the habit of learning, and expand our skill sets. GP vets are now encouraged to publish more case histories in established journals. Companion animal is always happy to consider submissions from our readers; there is a good chance of acceptance, and even if unsuccessful, the peer review process will help potential contributors to ensure the quality of their work. Research in practice is also encouraged. GPs have access to field data that researchers in academic institutions yearn to achieve. This is recognised by initiatives such as VetCompass led by the Royal Veterinary College, which makes use of the data we collect on practice management systems by standardising the recording of diagnoses and so allowing epidemiological studies. Clinical governance and evidence-based medicine are phrases currently in vogue. These concepts rely on analysis of data generated in the practice environment, and on reflection on, and consideration of, that data. A surprising amount of advice that we are expected to provide on common conditions or situations will vary wildly from practice to practice. As modern vets it is our responsibility to be questioning and to want evidence where we can find it. We can, and should, be part of that evidence-gathering process. Vets in first-opinion practice have the opportunity to contribute to furthering our knowledge by conducting research or by auditing diagnoses and treatments, and, using consistent recording, making essential data available to researchers. No vet should consider themselves ‘just a GP’. CA No vet is ‘just a general practitioner’