The Access to Veterinary Care Coalition (AVCC) and the University of Tennessee Center for Applied Research and Evaluation are looking to the veterinary community to participate in a national study about access to veterinary care affecting more than 25 million pets. “Your participation in this survey will provide a veterinarian’s perspective and help with understanding how to best address this crisis,” said Michael J. Blackwell, DVM, MPH, coalition chair. The purpose of the study is to identify barriers that families face as well as best practices in delivering veterinary care to underserved pets. Phase One of the study surveyed pet owners across the U.S. in various socio-economic groups. Now the AVCC is surveying veterinarians who work in different settings across the U.S., including for-profit businesses and nonprofit organizations. The findings will be published and widely available by the end of 2018 to help guide veterinarians, animal welfare organizations, legislators, community leaders, and others as they seek to improve access to veterinary care for all pets. “Your participation will help ensure a better understanding of this societal problem and encourage evidence-based strategies to save lives,” said Dr. Blackwell. To take the survey, which the coalition estimates will take about 15 minutes, click here. The AVCC is a diverse group that includes veterinarians, animal welfare and social services professionals, and educators working to improve access to veterinary care for all pets. This includes conducting a national population study made possible by Maddie’s Fund.
