Legislation
The College regulates the veterinary profession through a number of different forms of authority.
The Veterinarians Act provides the College with the authority to develop by-laws to define the administration of the College. The by-laws are drafted by Council and any changes are circulated to all licensed members.
The Act also enables Council to establish the Minimum Standards for Veterinary Facilities in Ontario. All veterinary facilities in Ontario must comply with these standards, or be granted specific exemptions.
Legislation and regulations are in place to protect the public interest. Here are some examples:
Consent: Informed client consent is required for treatment.
Privacy and Medical Records: Veterinarians can only provide information to you or someone you authorize to represent you. You must consent to the release of your information, unless it is required or allowed by law.
Professional Conduct: The public, including clients, have the right to file a complaint with the College if they have concerns about the care provided by a veterinarian or the actions or conduct of a veterinarian.
Licensure: The College is responsible for ensuring that applicants have met the educational requirements and standards of qualification to become licensed to practise veterinary medicine in Ontario.
Accreditation: Veterinarians must practise from a professional environment which meets the standards to be granted a Certificate of Accreditation.
Quality Practice: The College's Quality Practice program promotes continuing competence and continuing quality improvement among licensed veterinarians.