CMA unveils potential ‘remedies’ in vet working paper
The BVA has also welcomed the CMA’s commitment to retaining vets’ clinical freedom, which has been under keen scrutiny in recent weeks
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has unveiled its working paper with potential “remedies” as part of its investigation into the veterinary sector in the UK.
The CMA has reaffirmed the need to reform the “outdated” Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 which has been welcomed by the British Veterinary Association (BVA).
The watchdog has revealed that it is considering changes to prescriptions and medicines, in particular a potential requirement for generic prescribing, and prescription and medicine price controls.
It is also looking into restrictions on contracts with out of hours care providers, potential price concerns relating to cremation services and the introduction of standardised price lists.
The BVA has stated that it has some initial concerns around these potential remedies but will consider the details before providing a substantive response.
The BVA has also welcomed the CMA’s commitment to retaining vets’ clinical freedom, which has been under keen scrutiny in recent weeks.
Dr. Elizabeth Mullineaux, BVA President, said: “Many of the CMA’s potential remedies are absolutely hitting the right note, particularly around the need for greater transparency and better communication and it’s good to see the CMA acknowledging the steps the profession has taken to address these with BVA support.
“We will look closely at the details of these in the coming weeks and formally respond to the CMA. It’s vital that any measures the CMA presses forward with do not risk undermining the ability of veterinary professionals to do their job or compromise the sustainability of the sector, which could have negative consequences for the welfare of the animals in our care.”
The CMA has recognised the dedication shown by vets and vet nurses to the animals under their care and acknowledged that the vast majority of pet owners recognise this, with 88% of respondents to its survey agreeing that their vet focused on the highest standard of care for their pet’s health.
It has also highlighted the profession’s efforts to proactively address many of its initial concerns since its investigation launched in 2023.
