Regulatory body AMTRA is leading the push to formally change the title SQP [Suitably Qualified Person) to RAMA (Registered Animal Medicines Advisor).
The aim is to better reflect and recognise the role of registered professionals qualified to prescribe and supply animal medicines such as horse wormers.
AMTRA envisages that an official change from SQP could be implemented within the legislation that will see the current UK Veterinary Medicines Regulations (VMR) replaced by new legislation in January 2022.
Stephen Dawson, AMTRA secretary general explains: “This is a subject that has been on our radar for some time, as we do not feel the name SQP reflects the abilities of those that have passed through the training, qualification and maintain their CPD and on-going learning.
“Registered Animal Medicines Advisor, or RAMA, more accurately qualifies the important role these individuals play as part of a wider animal health plan, and this applies equally whether we are looking at the equine sector, or indeed farm animals and companion animals.”
The VMD (Veterinary Medicines Directorate) has been discussing with stakeholders, including AMTRA, how the UK VMR should be updated.
VMD has indicated that it is unlikely the names of medicines categories would change, including POM-VPS (Prescription Only Medicine – Veterinarian, Pharmacist, SQP) and NFA-VPS (Non-Food Animal – Veterinarian, Pharmacist, SQP).
But despite references to SQPs in these categories, it is not considered a barrier to a change in the name.
· ETN runs regular AMTRA accredited CPD features and quizzes to help SQPs maintain their qualifications. And there is a series of CPD seminars at BETA International 2020.
