BY: SAMANTHA BARTLETT, DVM

The AVMA has developed a list of competencies for certification in veterinary disaster and emergency planning and response. This will be the first standardized training program in this field for the nation. The 35 competencies finalized by the Committee on Disaster and Emergency Issues cover logistical and health issues that must be addressed during disasters and animal health emergencies. The Committee is accepting submissions for training courses to be approved based on these competencies. 

The American Veterinary Medical Foundation’s board of directors voted last November to provide the AVMA $80,000 to develop the certification program for veterinary first responders. To date, there is no standardized program for veterinary disaster and emergency planning and response in existence. 

Initially, most courses will be offered directly by colleges and other organizations with programs that have been approved by the CDEI. Some courses will be aired on AXON – the AVMA’s online continuing education platform. The program will be ready to being certifying individuals by 2022. 

There are 8 core competencies with several subcategories (for a total of 35) required as part of the certification program. Seven of the competencies deal with planning and preparedness, organizational roles and community response, knowledge and solutions to potential health concerns, impacts of disasters on resources, biosecurity and animal welfare principles, reporting and responding to zoonotic and foreign animal diseases, knowledge of depopulation techniques and humane euthanasia that may be required in animal health emergencies. The eight competency requires completion of selected Federal Emergency Management Agency courses that are offered online. 

More information can be found at https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/animal-health-and-welfare/disaster-preparedness/avma-veterinary-first-responder-certificate-program.