A newly released document aims to clarify rules and regulations surrounding the prescription and administration of opioids in veterinary medicine. The American Association of Veterinary State Boards’ (AAVSB’s) latest resource, Model Regulations for the Appropriate Use of Opioids in Veterinary Medicine, addresses “the current opioid crisis” in the U.S., says the association’s executive director, Jim Penrod. Model regulations are developed by AAVSB’s regulatory policy task force to serve as a resource for all of its member boards when considering changes to rules or regulations. “The task force recognized veterinarians dispensing or prescribing opioids should follow best practices and should be held accountable,” Penrod says. “As regulators, we must ensure animals and people are protected, and consumers have an avenue to file a complaint should something go wrong.” The document, the association adds, should be used in conjunction with AAVSB's Practice Act Model. “[This] should in no way be construed to alter the scope of practice of any veterinarian or veterinary technician or authorize the delivery of veterinary medical services in a manner that is not otherwise authorized by law,” the association states. For more information, click here.
