| The Alberta Veterinary Medical Association
(AB.VMA) is the professional organization governing the practice of
veterinary medicine in Alberta under the authority of the Veterinary
Profession Act. As a self-governing profession, the AB.VMA is required
to perform its regulatory and professional functions in accordance
with the law and in a manner responsible to the public of Alberta
through the government of Alberta Employment and Immigration.
The AB.VMA has been in existence since 1906, when the newly created
province passed the "Act Respecting Veterinary Surgeons."
There were 43 veterinarians on the AB.VMA Roster that year. Today,
there are over 863 registered certified veterinarians practicing
in over 350 veterinary clinics throughout Alberta. The AB.VMA is responsible
for ensuring that all veterinarians in the province are qualified
to practice veterinary medicine.
The Veterinary Profession Act and its regulations specify the educational
requirement and credentials for anyone practicing veterinary medicine
in Alberta. As well, they ensure all veterinary practitioners perform
their duties in a skillful and professional manner by outlining
a very detailed and specific discipline process to which members
are held accountable. Provisions are also made to ensure ongoing
education and training of members and the regular inspection of
veterinary facilities to ensure compliance with accepted practice
standards.
To Practice Veterinary Medicine in Alberta all persons
must:
- be a graduate of a six-year, accredited university program in
veterinary medicine
- successfully complete the North American Veterinary Licensing
Exam, administrated by the National Examining Board
- attend a minimum number of scientific education sessions each
year
- renew their registration to practice annually
- practice only through a registered inspected veterinary facility
- be accountable to the public through an enforceable disciplinary
procedure.
In addition a limited scope of veterinary practice is allowed to
Animal Health Technologists under supervision of a veterinarian,
if:
- the technologist is a graduate of a program of at least two
years in length and accredited by the Canadian Veterinary Medical
Association (CVMA)
- has passed an approved examination
- is a member of good standing of the Alberta Association of Animal
Health Technologists (AAAHT)
In very specific cases veterinarians may refer cases to qualified
medical professionals who are licensed by legislation. The veterinarian
remains responsible for the patient in these situations.
The animals of Alberta and their human owners deserve qualified
and accountable professional care. It is the responsibility of the
Alberta Veterinary Medical association to make sure this happens.
If you are unaware of the qualifications of an individual offering
service to your animals it is your right to ask. |
