Summary of Requirements
ACVAA Endorsement Guidelines for Certificate Granting Training Programs in the Areas of Veterinary Anesthesia and Perioperative Analgesia:
- Program provides a minimum of 12 hours of training solely focused in the areas of veterinary anesthesia and/or perioperative pain management
- Web based training programs may be considered (e.g. webinars), but the presenter of the lecture, case-based learning or other method of instruction must be available for Q&A sessions
- Programs promoting training on use of specific brand name products or patented techniques will not be considered
- Self-study programs or programs based on on-line delivery will not be considered
- A certificate training program should have at least 2 ACVAA Diplomates overseeing and ensuring adherence to the guideline requirements through either review or direct involvement in program delivery, course development and exam preparation
- A copy of the curriculum outline must be submitted to the ACVAA with the application. If copyrighted material is used, a statement indicating permission of the owner to use their material is appropriate
- A copy of the final examination or assessment focused on the curriculum outline must be provided and should contain referenced questions
- The curriculum outline must also be available for viewing by the general public such as on the Training Providers website and must include: a list of the presenters and their biographical information which clearly indicates their expertise in anaesthesia and peri-operative pain management method of program delivery (e.g. lecture, lab, or case discussion) course syllabus and/or learning objectives a list of teaching resources used (e.g. specific textbook, video or website content)
- Sponsoring organizations/groups must maintain a current, public database (e.g. on their website) which lists the certificate holders and their certification status.
- A recertification plan must be specified by the granting organization for all certificate holders, which shall occur at minimum every five years. The nature of the recertification requirements may vary based on the scope of the certificate program but must ensure maintenance of current knowledge and skills in the area(s) for which certificates are awarded.
- Certification programs must clearly specify (in a publicly accessible place such as a website) the differences between their certificate and the diploma of any AVMA-recognized specialty organization.
- All ACVAA endorsed certificate granting programs must require that their certificate holders comply with the AVMA Principals of Veterinary Medical Ethics relating to the use of the granted certificate.
