Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 26th January 2016
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Concerns over KPIs in new TB testing contracts
cattle
BVA president Sean Wensley said the association is working to ensure the right balance is struck.

DARD releases general terms of procurement contract
 
The general terms of a new TB testing contract in Northern Ireland were released last week at two supplier open days arranged by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD).

Whilst the release of these terms has been "broadly welcomed" by BVA's Northern Ireland branch, incoming president Seamus O'Kane said: "Concerns were raised about the details of the KPIs."

The details of these concerns have not yet been shared, as the terms of the contract are not publicly available at this stage.

BVA president Sean Wensley said the association is working to ensure the right balance is struck.

"Our veterinary colleagues carrying out TB testing throughout the UK are engaged in work vital to animal health and welfare and to agricultural economies.

"We are working with administrations in every country to ensure the essential and expert work of veterinary surgeons is fully-recognised and that a balance is struck between proper remuneration for veterinary services, client choice, and certainty and ease in the administration of the service, including clarity in relation to KPIs."

The release of the full contract is expected on 1 March, 2016.

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Applications open for MMI research grants

News Story 1
 RCVS' Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has launched round two of its veterinary mental health research grants.

Researchers have until 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 to apply for a grant for research which reflects MMI's 2025 focus areas.

Only one Impact Grant was awarded last year, and so this year there are two Discovery Grants and one Impact Grants available. Each Discovery Grant is worth £5,000 and the Impact Grant is worth £15,000.

For more information or to apply, email researchgrants@rcvs.org.uk to contact the MMI team.

 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BBC Radio 4 documentary addresses corporate fees

BBC Radio 4's File on 4 Investigates has released a documentary exploring how corporate-owned veterinary practices may be inflating bills to increase profit.

Released on 15 April, 'What's Happening To Your Vet Bills?' revealed the policies which many corporate groups have in place to increase their profits. This included targets and upgrades which veterinary teams are tasked with meeting on a regular basis.

It also features Anrich Vets, an independently-owned practice based in Wigan. Following the case of Staffordshire terrier Benjy, who is diagnosed with a tumour, the documentary shares how the team were able to offer contextualised care and advice to make the procedure as affordable as possible for his owners.

The documentary can be heard on demand on BBC iPlayer.