RCVS invites comment on new code of professional conduct

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) is soliciting feedback from animal health practitioners and the public on its new draft code of professional conduct.

A new code has been drawn up following a working party review instigated by the RCVS' advisory committee, which is intended to ensure that the guidance contained in the document is as clear as possible.

Using the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe's code of conduct as a basis, the new RCVS guidelines include a compulsory continuing professional development requirement and an increased emphasis on animal welfare and clinical competence.

Clare Tapsfield-Wright, chairman of the guides review working party, said these changes bring the code in line with modern conventions of professional conduct rules publications, as well as eliminating the "unwieldiness" of the old code.

"Animal owners are increasingly keen to understand the basis of what the veterinary profession considers to be good professional conduct. The new simplified code should assist with this understanding," she added.

Earlier this month, the RCVS observed that its recent introduction of a Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing has coincided with a rise in student enrolment in the UK.