The RCVS say that the awards focus on behaviours and other factors that impact the veterinary care of animals, the practice team, and the client experience.

RCVS announce prize draw for 20 free assessments
 
The new RCVS Practice Standards Scheme (PSS) was launched this morning (20 November) at the London Vet Show.

Speaking to a packed business theatre, PSS group chair Jacqui Molyneux gave delegates an overview of the new scheme and highlighted some of its key features and benefits.

An online administration and support system called Stanley has been developed to speed up the accreditation process.  As well as providing step-by-step guidance on the Scheme's requirements, Stanley also provides a document storage facility, a reminder service for appointments and a self-assessment tool to mark progress.

The new scheme will also provide a flexible, modular structure for all types of practice. The accreditation levels remain as Core Standards, General Practice, Veterinary Hospital and Emergency Services Clinics, with criteria based on the services the practice provides as well as facilities and equipment.

A new accreditation level, Equine General Practice, has been introduced for those practices without premises. The standards are presented in a modular format which will help practices know exactly what requirements must be met, in what areas, and at what accreditation level.

Practices will be able to apply for a range of optional awards to demonstrate the areas in which their practice excels. The RCVS say that the awards focus on behaviours and other factors that impact the veterinary care of animals, the practice team, and the client experience.

A new team of PSS assessors have been employed by the Council to carry out the accreditation/award assessments. From now on, assessors will focus on behaviours and outcomes in practice, rather than just facilities and equipment. They will also offer guidance to help practices improve.

Practices who are already registered with the old PSS Scheme have automatically been transferred to the new Scheme and are invited to apply for new accreditations and awards.

Free assessments are available for 20 practices in return for assisting the RCVS with advanced trials. The draw will be held on December 7 and unsuccessful practices will be offered advanced access to Stanley.

For more information about the scheme visit www.rcvs.org.uk/newpss

Image courtesy of the RCVS