Growing Forward 2 - Final Report | Page 30

DESIRED OUTCOMES During the CVO Facilitated Discussions, when asked what the “future would look like” if appropriate changes were made and were successful, participating veterinarians reported a variety of desired outcomes. Some of the participating veterinarians would like to see a documented reduction in the total amount of antibiotics used. Documentation would require establishing a baseline and measuring the change over time. In particular, they would like to see a decrease in the use of Category I and II drugs. Maintained efficacy of antibiotics with documented reductions in the incidence of antibiotic resistance through positive trends in the CIPARS data, as well as an increase in sustainable alternatives, were cited as components of a desired future. Meaningful changes would require a coordinated effort with one identified group leading the work in the area of antibiotic use and resistance. A shared responsibility for safe food is a desired outcome, which includes auditing of on-farm records and increased traceability of residue violations. Veterinarians would like to see a documented reduction in the total amount of antibiotics used. Documentation would require establishing a baseline and measuring the change over time. In particular, they would like to see a decrease in the use of Category I and II drugs. Some of the participating veterinarians would like to see increased veterinary oversight of antibiotic use; antibiotics would be available only through a veterinarian by prescription and a Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR) would always be maintained. Veterinarians would present a unified front, would appreciate the privilege they enjoy by being able to prescribe antibiotics and all prescribing decisions would be based on science. It was felt by some veterinarians that CVO verification would be an important step. Desired outcomes would include continued access by veterinarians to antibiotics and the continued ability to prescribe antibiotics in an extra-label fashion. Desired outcomes include improved public perception of food product quality and safety, together with improved trust as to how antibiotics are used in livestock and by veterinary professionals. It wa