Board approves veterinary technology program proposals

The Executive Board approved several proposals from the Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities. One was the immediate implementation of a $2,500 application fee for new veterinary technology programs. The fee will help defray the costs associated with initial accreditation.

Effective in January 2003, each accredited veterinary technology program will also be assessed a $500 annual accreditation fee to cover the associated costs.

The accreditation classification for technology programs was changed. To prevent misinterpretation of probational accreditation, this designation will be reserved as a punitive status. Provisional accreditation will now classify programs in their beginning stages.

The board approved revisions to the AVMA Policy on Veterinary Technology to clarify the role and definition of veterinary assistants. The changes resulted from collaboration between the North American Veterinary Technician Association, Association of Veterinary Technician Educators, and AVMA Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities.

The library standard for accredited veterinary technology programs was amended to reflect the increased use of Internet and other electronic-based informational media.

Acknowledging the rapid increase in accredited veterinary technology programs over the past few years, the board expanded the Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities' fall meeting from three days to four, to allow more time to address accreditation-related issues. As of March 19, the committee accredited 88 programs. One board member noted that a more lasting solution will be needed soon.