Notice - ABVMA Complaints
March 19, 2020.
The Alberta Veterinary Medical Association (ABVMA) has been closely monitoring the COVID-19 outbreak and the measures recommended by Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health (CMOH).
The ABVMA has taken measures to accommodate the reality of dealing with the current pandemic, to ensure the health and safety of our members and staff, and to reduce the risk of the spread of COVID-19.
At this time, the ABVMA office is closed to all outside visitors. Please do not attend in-person at the ABVMA office until further notice.
Current investigations are proceeding to the extent that investigators may abide by the recommendations from Alberta Health regarding social distancing to prevent the spread of the virus. Investigated members and complainants will be advised if a particular investigation will be paused.
The ABVMA Complaints Director is available for calls regarding concerns with delivery of veterinary medical services in Alberta. Please call 780-784-5223.
The ABVMA will continue to receive formal complaints by mail/courier at:
Complaints Director
Alberta Veterinary Medical Association
Suite 104, 9452 – 51 Ave NW
Edmonton, AB T6E 5A6
In addition, hearings previously scheduled have been adjourned. We are make reasonable accommodations to schedule hearings virtually as appropriate.
Thank you for your understanding and patience.
Phil Buote, DVM
ABVMA Complaints Director
Complaints
The ABVMA is the professional regulatory body for the veterinary profession in Alberta. The ABVMA registers all veterinarians and veterinary technologists practicing in the province. The ABVMA establishes the minimum professional standards of veterinary medicine and professional conduct for all of our members. The public interest is protected by providing a process to address complaints from the public.
If you have a concern about the care that your animal has received, often the best first step is to discuss the matter with your veterinarian. You are entitled to a simple and understandable explanation of the treatment recommended for your animal as well as an estimate of the associated costs. When dealing with a major animal health issue, obtaining a second opinion may give you a different perspective.
Complaints Process
The ABVMA encourages any person with a concern to first contact their veterinarian. If the matter is not resolved through communication with your veterinarian, you may contact the Alberta Veterinary Medical Association by phone to discuss your concerns with the Complaints Director.
A detailed description of the ABVMA Complaint Process may be found here:
Contact the ABVMA
A formal letter of complaint may be submitted in writing to:
ALBERTA VETERINARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION
c/o Dr. Phil Buote, Deputy Registrar & Complaints Director
Building #3, Elm Business Park
Suite 104, 9452-51 Avenue NW
Edmonton, AB T6E 5A6
Phone: 780-784-5223
Toll-Free: 1-800-404-2862
Office Hours
Monday - Friday
8 a.m.-4 p.m
(closed daily from 12-1 p.m.)
Closed weekends and holidays
