Controversial Vet Tech Program in Washington State

The Washington State Veterinary Board of Governors (WSVBG) recently voted to approve a private veterinary practice’s proposal to establish a self-serving apprenticeship program as an alternative pathway to licensure as a Veterinary Technician in the state. The Washington State Association of Veterinary Technicians (WSAVT), NAVTA, AVMA, and several other veterinary groups opposed the change. This week we have two leaders from the WSAVT, Ryan Frazier, BS, LVT, and Ashley Byrne, LVT, to bring the Viewfinders up to speed and explain why this matters to everyone in veterinary medicine. Host Dr. Ernie Ward is flying solo this week as co-host Beckie Mossor, RVT, is traveling. Ashly, Ryan, and Dr. Ward have a spirited discussion on how this change occurred, what the nationwide implications could be, and what happens next. Viewfinders, this legal change could prove significant if enacted in other states. Thank you to Ryan and Ashley for sharing their concerns with the Veterinary Viewfinders! I encourage you to share this conversation with your state’s veterinarian and veterinary technician leaders. To learn the latest news on this issue, visit https://www.wsavt.org/news.