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Digital service to help tackle animal disease
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Selected veterinary practices have tested the online service to ensure it is fit for purpose.

Online resource to replace old paper-based method

An online testing service for vets has been launched by the APHA to help tackle farm animal disease.

Launched on Friday (15 July), the Animal Disease Testing Service is set to save vets time, support earlier diagnosis of diseases and improve access to sample results.

APHA say that this will allow them to receive vital disease information faster, and help vets to support their farm clients.

"Our new digital service will help vets detect and control disease faster by speeding up the process of sending on-farm samples to the APHA labs," explains UK chief veterinary officer, Nigel Gibbens.

"We've also revamped the way APHA records and releases results back to vets, so APHA laboratories can provide a speedier, more efficient and more responsive service."

The new service, which will ultimately replace the old paper-based method, has been launched in beta. This means that APHA will closely monitor user feedback and behaviour to drive ongoing enhancements and improvements. 

APHA say that the service has been designed around the needs of vets, and has been tested by selected veterinary practices to ensure it is fit for purpose.

Vets who wish to register for the new digital service can do so by visiting GOV.UK. Alternatively, vets can email AnimalDiseaseTesting@apha.gsi.gov.uk or contact the Veterinary Investigation Centre.
















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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.

 

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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.