Primary care vets may refer your pet to a Specialist for a complex condition or procedure requiring specialist equipment or expertise, similar to the way a GP doctor might refer you to a hospital consultant.
Achieving Specialist status is challenging. The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), which oversees the veterinary profession, has rigorous standards that vets must fulfil. This designation represents the highest level of expertise a vet can attain in the UK. In addition, Specialist vets are required to reapply for recognition and reaccreditation every five years to confirm they have maintained their expertise and skills at the Specialist level.
What it takes to become an RCVS Recognised specialist?
- 5 years Veterinary degree at University
- 1 year Internship
- 3-4 years Residency Training
- 5 years Reaccreditation process
- Publication of research in scientific journals
- Providing teaching and continued education in their field
- Attending scientific meetings
- OVERARCHING STATEMENT: Due to the extensive training, examination process, and reaccreditation required to achieve Specialist status, you can be confident that when you’re referred to one of our Specialists, you are in the most highly qualified and clinically skilled hands
