Action | Increase in CE hours for veterinary technicians |
Stage | Proposed |
Comment Period | Ended on 1/29/2016 |
The VALVT's mission is to support the growth of LVTs; sadly, this growth has not translated economically or in job satisfaction. In 1975, a new VT grad earned less than $10,000 annually. In order to have the same purchasing power today, a new grad would have to earn $40,515. The professional turnover rate for vet techs is 30% which is more than double the national average for other occupations. The average practice life for a credentialed vet tech is 5 years. Since the purpose of a regulatory board is to protect the public, I would suggest that having a more stable professional work force would be more beneficial than requiring a small increase in CE. Is there proof that LVTs in VA are harming animals because of lack of CE? Or as stated by the VALVT that it would look better to increase requirements since other states require more hours? As observed previously is this increase a solution looking for a problem?