The Oklahoma Veterinary Technician Association supports the Veterinary Nurse Initiative (VNI) and the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America.
For several years the veterinary technology and nursing profession has played a vital role in veterinary medicine. Veterinary Technicians have been a part of the Oklahoma Veterinary Practice Act since the early 1980’s. We are grateful for the support of several veterinary medicine groups in our state including all three technician teaching programs. OVTA is committed to career development and advancement for its members within the veterinary profession which include providing high-quality patient are, client communication, client education, and promoting the importance of our roles to the public. Despite our efforts to educate the public there has been minimal change in the understanding to the public about our profession.
The OVTA strongly believes that the VNI will pave a path in the future to unite our profession under single title with standard credentials and a standard scope of practice. Achievement of these goals will assure the highest quality of care to patients and animal owners, improve public relations, promote the use of veterinary services, and enhance the sustainability of the veterinary profession.
Our members agree that the name change will not only benefit our profession but will help educate the public of our profession. A single, unified title and a standardized credential of Registered Veterinary Nurse throughout the nation will better align the public perception of the role of veterinary nurse and elevate standards met by each credentialed individual. The Oklahoma Veterinary Technician Association’s Executive Board stands behind this coalition.