LEADERSHIP MESSAGE
PUBLIC PROTECTION IN TURBULENT TIMES
A year ago , the title of this message would not have been thinkable , and even if it was , the definition of turbulent would not have been a global pandemic . Our fiscal year runs October 1 to September 30 , so with all of this in mind , we actually had six relatively stable months with respect to delivering on our mission . And then came March 2020 !
The College of Veterinarians of Ontario is a principlebased organization , clearly focused on its efforts to understand the risks in veterinary practice , to reduce or prevent public and animal harm , and to assure an agile and responsive approach to regulation . The pandemic has brought a full test to this approach , increasingly placing the emphasis on the spirit not just the intent of legislation .
An emergency response is a moment in time . It is extreme in nature and demanding . The College , and every veterinarian , experienced this seismic shift . And yet , the requirement as essential services was to figure out the best way , in a sea of uncertainty , to stay the course .
The Council is particularly pleased with the College ’ s increasing emphasis in measuring the impact of its policy decisions . The “ so what ” of regulation is important to all – the profession , the animals , and the public . This year ’ s addition of an impact strategy unit increases our strategic look at the difference our policies make . We are excited to be leaders in this area and look forward to sharing our learnings , both those that are positive and challenging .
At this time of writing , there are no projections to offer other than a continuing responsible approach to veterinary regulation and attention to the needs of the public and risks to animals as dictated by evidence .
To our partners – thank you for assisting us to do a better job . To the public and the profession – thank you for your feedback and honesty . To the effective regulation of veterinary medicine – we continue to serve .
The College and its Council have led with courage during this tumultuous time . It has continued to believe and support , with its full resource , the sound judgement of its licensed professionals . It accessed its network and partnerships to sort the path forward . Most importantly , it adjusted its programs and policies to fit a “ new normal ”. The end goal has been the same – safe , quality veterinary care in Ontario .
This annual report demonstrates the continued work and focus of the College on the public interest
• An increase in the number of new licensed members
• An increase in the number of accredited facilities , inclusive of those with a narrowed scope of practice focused on current public need
• The steady management of complaints matters
• The continued movement toward new and improved quality assurance programs
• The use of external advisory panels to inform our work
We urge you to read further to better understand our progress in 2020 .
Dr . Susan Warren President
Jan Robinson Registrar and CEO
COLLEGE OF VETERINARIANS OF ONTARIO ANNUAL REPORT 2020 5