FIVP and SPVS release joint CMA remedies response
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The Federation of Independent Veterinary Practices (FIVP) has collaborated with the Society of Practising Veterinary Surgeons (SPVS) to respond to the CMA’s suggested remedies.
The joint response investigates the CMA’s working papers from the perspective of independent practices, concluding that these practices would see a ‘disproportionately negative impact’.
The report reveals ‘critical concerns’ from FIVP and SPVS members about the remedies. The submission outlines arguments against the remedies and proposes alternative solutions that could be implemented.
FIVP and SPVS have particularly highlighted the burden that implementing potential requirements would have on smaller practices. Among the CMA’s suggested remedies are mandatory prescriptions and detailed price comparisons.
Their response notes how this might impact independent practices, including an administrative overload and reduced profitability. The groups say that this could lead to increased costs for clients.
They have also warned against an over-emphasis on price transparency in the CMA’s remedies.
The groups suggest that the CMA’s focus on price transparency could contribute to the erosion of the ‘vet-client-pet’ relationship. They say that, despite independent practices’ core values, mandated price transparency risks turning veterinary care into a ‘purely transactional interaction’.
FIVP and SPVS state that they remain supportive of the CMA’s goals of increased transparency and client choice.
They say that they advocate for client education and choice, and approve efforts to ensure fairness for independent practices. Through a survey of SPVS and FIVP members, the organisations found that many supported the development of a Client Information website that would guide clients to get the best for their pets from their veterinary practice.
The response has called for any changes to be introduced through a phased approach to help independent practices through the transition.
Rita Dingwall, chair of FIVP, said: “This joint effort highlights the unique position and challenges faced by independent veterinary practices in light of the proposed remedies.
“Together, we have worked diligently to articulate the critical role that independent practices have in providing tailored high-quality care for our communities.”
The full response can be read here.
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