RCVS publishes reminder on guidance
The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) has responded to allegations in reports on the television programme BBC Newsline that veterinary surgeons are not reporting suspected cases of badger-baiting to the relevant authorities by publishing a reminder on client confidentiality guidelines.
Published on the RCVS website, the reminder states that “If there is suspicion of animal abuse, as a result of examining an animal, a veterinary surgeon should consider whether the circumstances are sufficiently serious to justify breaching the usual obligations of client confidentiality.”
“In cases where discussing these concerns with the client would not be appropriate, or where the client’s reaction increases rather than allays these concerns, the veterinary surgeon should contact the relevant authorities, for example the RSPCA, SSPCA or USPCA, to report alleged cruelty to an animal.”
“Such action should only be taken when the veterinary surgeon considers on reasonable grounds that the public interest in protecting an animal overrides the professional obligation to maintain client confidentiality.”
“A veterinary surgeon may contact the RCVS for advice before any confidential information is divulged (profcon@rcvs.org.uk / 020 7202 0789).”
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