We are excited to announce that the Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association (MVMA) has been awarded $200,000 in government funding over the next two years to address Manitoba’s growing shortage of veterinary professionals, especially in rural and remote areas. The MVMA received a grant through the Sustainable Canadian Agriculture Partnership that will enable us to execute targeted initiatives designed to recruit, retain, and enhance the roles of veterinary professionals across the province. Below is a look at each funded project:

1. Feasibility Study for Mid-Level Practitioner (MLP) Role: This study will assess the financial and practical feasibility of introducing a mid-level practitioner role, similar to the physician’s assistant model in human medicine. This new model could greatly benefit the veterinary industry. The maximum budget for this project is 125k. For more information, click here.
2. Empowerment of RVTs: This initiative aims to support RVTs in utilizing their full skill sets, enhancing their roles and contributions to veterinary practice. The maximum budget for this project is 25k. For more information, click here.
3. Rural Access to Care and Review of the Veterinary Client Patient Relationship (VCPR) Requirements Project: This project will assess current access to veterinary care in rural Manitoba, identifying gaps and developing strategies to improve veterinary services for animals and communities in underserved areas. Further, this project will review current VCPR regulations, exploring possible improvements to telemedicine, after-hours care, and expanded roles for RVTs. If deemed beneficial, modifications to existing VCPR requirements will be considered to ensure optimal care and service access for Manitobans. The maximum budget for this project is 50k. For more information, click here.

Proposals are due by November 29, 2024.

Read the MVMA & MVTA joint letter to government here.