AAVSB^® Develops Model Regulations for the Appropriate Use of Opioids in Veterinary Medicine

The American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB) is pleased to announce the development of Model Regulations for the Appropriate Use of Opioids in Veterinary Medicine. Model regulations are developed by the AAVSB Regulatory Policy Task Force to serve as a resource for all of the AAVSB Member Boards when considering changes to rules or regulations.

"The Regulatory Policy Task Force was charged by the AAVSB Board of Directors with creating a model document that addressed the current opioid crisis we are facing in this country today" stated Jim Penrod, the AAVSB's Executive Director. "The Task Force recognized that veterinarians dispensing or prescribing opioids should follow best practices and should be held accountable. As regulators, we must ensure that animals and people are protected, and consumers have an avenue to file a complaint should something go wrong."

The document, Model Regulations - Appropriate Use of Opioids in Veterinary Medicine, is a model for states and provinces to consider and should be used in conjunction with the AAVSB's Practice Act Model. It 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.

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