AAEVT Statement: Mid-Level Practitioner

The recent decision in Colorado to authorize the role of Mid-Level Veterinary Practitioners has left many in our community disheartened and deeply concerned. Despite strong opposition from veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and respected organizations like the AAEP and AVMA, this legislation has passed. We question how a measure with such widespread opposition made its way through the legislative process.

At AAEVT, we believe that this decision may not solve the issue of staffing shortages and may in fact, widen the gap in providing quality veterinary care. The requirements for this new role raise concerns about the qualifications and skill levels involved. It’s unsettling to think that individuals with a less comprehensive education than credentialed technicians might be entrusted with the responsibility of managing the health of our companion animals and equines.

In solidarity with the AAEP, AVMA, and other respected voices, the AAEVT stands firmly against this bill.

We will continue to advocate for our members and for standards that uphold the highest level of care in our field.

Thoughts & Concerns:

Strengthening existing programs for veterinary technicians, rather than creating a new role, would likely yield
better outcomes. The AAEVT’s Technician Guideline Reference, which outlines three levels of technician
utilization, establishes clear competency standards to help veterinarians integrate licensed technicians
effectively.
The new Mid-Level Practitioner role should carefully consider the legal ramifications of diagnosing, prescribing,
and performing procedures. Expanding these responsibilities without adequate safeguards may pose significant
risks to patient care and practitioner liability.
This bill also undermines the foundations that Credentialed Veterinary Technicians (CrVTs) have built. Without
national title protection and standardization, the decision further complicates an already fragmented system.
The Veterinarian-Technician partnership is fundamental to high-quality veterinary care. Licensed technicians
bring specialized education and expertise, allowing veterinarians and technicians together to provide the best
outcomes for animal welfare—a goal this new role may not support.

Four Key Points:

Retention: Compensation Package, Work/Life Balance, Paid Time Off.
Draw: Tech/Intern Program-Mentorship, (AVMA accredited school offers 95% Companion Animal and very little Equine/Large Animal).
Education: Reimbursement after two, (2) years of work offering financial assistance to attend Tech School. Assistants play an important and valuable role in veterinary practice, showcase the value of furthering their education& creating a career.
Outreach: High School Career Center – make aware and highlight the opportunities of becoming a careered Veterinary Technician.

AAEVT Statement: Mid-Level Practitioner

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