Originally published in the March/April 2017 issue of the OVMA Observer.
All veterinary facilities in Ohio are subject to random compliance inspections by an investigator of the Ohio Veterinary Medical Licensing Board. These inspections are primarily educational in nature and designed to ensure sound medical standards are being followed. Where deficiencies are found, information and direction for their correction are shared.
Clinics will receive a notice at least five days prior to an inspection. Facilities that are accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association are not inspected by the OVMLB, as AAHA accreditation standards meet or exceed the state in all areas— unless a compliant is received against them.
Last year (2016), OVMLB reported inspecting 257 facilities with only 20 correction notices issued and five re-inspections. In other words, some 92 percent of veterinary facilities passed on their first attempt.