Professor John Innes BVSc PhD CertVR DSAS(orth) FRCVS Orthopaedic Surgeon and Spinal Surgeon RCVS Specialist Small Animal Surgery (Orthopaedics)
Mark Morton BVSc DSAS(orth) MRCVS Orthopaedic Surgeon RCVS Specialist Small Animal Surgery (Orthopaedics)
Ben Walton BVSc DSAS(orth) MRCVS Orthopaedic Surgeon and Spinal Surgeon RCVS Specialist Small Animal Surgery (Orthopaedics)
In the UK, to become a Veterinary Specialist registered with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) typically requires at least three years of postgraduate training in a recognised specialist training programme. Having completed the training programme, candidate Specialists must then meet certain criteria to be able to sit and pass RCVS or European College Diploma examinations that are very exacting. Having passed the Diploma examination, successful candidates can then apply to become RCVS-registered Specialists.
RCVS Specialist status is therefore not easily achieved. To be included on the List of RCVS Specialists (on the RCVS Find a Vet website), an individual must have achieved a postgraduate qualification at least at Diploma level, and must additionally satisfy the RCVS that they make an active contribution to their specialty, have national and international acclaim and publish widely in their field. Specialist status is also time-bound, and the individual must reapply for recognition every five years to maintain their name on the List.
Whilst under current regulatory guidance in UK, referral is not restricted to RCVS Specialists only, it is your right as a client to see a registered RCVS Specialist if you so wish.
If your pet needs advanced advice, diagnostics, or treatment, your vet may advise referral. It is always best to discuss referral options with your own vet. Your vet may offer different options for referral, but referral to a Specialist should be part of that offering.