T
he RCVS Practice Standards Scheme
(PSS) is an accreditation scheme for
veterinary practices, which is governed by
the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons.
It aims to promote and maintain the highest
standards of veterinary care across all areas
of veterinary practice including small animal,
farm and equine.
When a veterinary practice has met the stringent
standards and gained PSS accreditation, you
can be reassured that the service and care you
receive from your veterinary practice is of the
high quality expected.
The Practice Standards Scheme is far reaching,
including clinical standards such as hygiene,
available facilities, 24-hour emergency
arrangements and staff training. It also
incorporates good practice management such
as health and safety, handling of complaints
and staff management. Rigorous inspections,
regular re-inspection, and unannounced spot
checks keep accredited practices on their toes
to maintain the high standards required.
Practices are awarded a rating of the facilities
and services on offer, ranging from Core
standard, to General Practice standard,
through to Veterinary Hospital standard
(Small Animal and Equine).
The rating at every level is accompanied by
the care and compassion of veterinary
surgeons and veterinary nurses, which is an
equally important factor to consider when
choosing a veterinary practice.
On a practical basis, the path to accreditation
involves a detailed analysis of how we care for
our patients, clients and staff. Ultimately it is
rewarding to know that we have achieved the
standard of care expected and our clients can
be comfortable in the knowledge that their
pets will be well cared for.
Within XLVets, we support and
work together to achieve the
highest standards of care, and
accreditation under the RCVS
Practice Standards Scheme.
RCVS
practice standards
scheme:
What does it mean?
In times gone by, the romantic ‘James Herriot’ image of providing veterinary
care was enough to inform clients of what to expect from their local practice.
With the rapid change of veterinary services over the years, it can be confusing
as to exactly what level of service is offered when you entrust your pet to the
care of a veterinary surgeon.
by
Mark Allaway BVSc MRCVS
Cliffe Veterinary Group
For more information, visit
www.rcvs.org.uk/practice-standards-scheme