In this episode of The Business of Practice podcast, Ashley Morgan, DVM, CAE, AAEP director of equine welfare and advocacy, joined us to discuss the AAEP Advocacy Network and some of the latest key legislative and regulatory developments that could impact the veterinary profession.
Morgan described a few issues currently affecting equine veterinary medicine. She explained how policy decisions can affect medication access, such as the regulations proposed for xylazine. In addition, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has submitted new proposed rulemaking concerning the Horse Protection Act. The utilization and credentialing of veterinary technicians, along with the creation of a mid-level practitioner in some states, are other hot issues, along with state efforts to allow lay dentistry and virtual VCPRs.
Emphasizing how small, simple actions can make a big difference, Morgan gave examples such as reposting information, making phone calls to legislators, writing emails, attending advocacy days, and providing testimony as a veterinary expert. She reassured listeners, “You don’t need to be a policy expert.”
Next, Morgan explained the many ways the AAEP influences policy through its members and its stature as the voice for the horse. She asked members to keep the association informed about emerging issues as they arise. In closing, she encouraged all veterinarians to be engaged in their state VMA to effect positive change.
To access more advocacy resources and webinars, find opportunities to weigh in on emerging issues, or join the AAEP Advocacy Network, you can contact Morgan at amorgan@aaep.org.
About Dr. Ashley Morgan
Ashley Morgan, DVM, CAE, is the AAEP’s new director of equine welfare and advocacy. Her primary duties include advocacy and outreach to address scope of practice, welfare, social license to operate, and other important issues, as well as to grow AAEP’s influence among industry, breed, and discipline organizations. Morgan is the staff liaison to the Performance Horse Committee, the Racing Committee, and the Welfare & Public Policy Advisory Council.
Morgan graduated from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, after which she practiced clinical medicine for three years. In 2008, she served as an AAAS and AVMA Congressional Fellow for a year in the Office of Senator Richard Burr, after which she worked at the AVMA for more than 16 years as the state advocacy division director and the assistant director of the governmental relations division.
Related Reading
- Midlevel Practitioners: Current Status and Clinical Impact
- The Legal and Ethical Implications of the VCPR
- The Business of Practice: Navigating Educational Loan Policy Changes
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