Our policies

Under care and the remote provision of veterinary services

What’s the issue?

The term ‘under care’ has been in existence since the introduction of the Medicines Act 1968. An RCVS interpretation of ‘under care’ was introduced shortly after and exists in its current form in the supporting guidance to the RCVS Code of Professional Conduct for Veterinary Surgeons. The term originally related to responsible prescribing, and this remains one aspect of its meaning. However, the practice of veterinary medicine is much more than prescription of medicines.

There have been ongoing discussions within RCVS relating to under care, telemedicine, and remote prescribing. Our position has been developed in response to this, and in recognition of concerns across the profession that the term “telemedicine” remains ill defined.

What’s our view?

The RCVS interpretation of ‘under care’ should go beyond the temporal relationship to the act of prescribing, such that it more accurately captures the relationship between vets, clients, and their animals, and the shared responsibilities for safeguarding welfare. The RCVS should formally adopt the concept of the vet-client-patient relationship (VCPR) and define it in a way that is fit for purpose now and in the future.

We consider that a VCPR cannot be established solely by remote means, but once established a VCPR should enable access to remote veterinary service provision, subject to veterinary professional judgement. We’re also clear that POM-Vs should only be prescribed remotely in the presence of an established VCPR and where, in the professional judgement of the vet, animal health and welfare will benefit.

Our position includes 37 recommendations relating to:

  • The definition of ‘under care’ and international models
  • Shared responsibility for animal health and welfare
  • The concept of a vet-client-patient relationship (VCPR)
  • Continuity of care
  • Limited-service providers
  • Remote veterinary service provision
  • Remote prescribing
  • Animal health telemetry data
  • Technology and innovation, including veterinary leadership, and regulation of technological tools and devices
  • Emergency care

Read our policy document

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