What action should a veterinarian take if they become aware of a colleague's impaired practice?

When a veterinarian becomes aware of a colleague's impaired practice, the most appropriate action is to report the situation to the College of Veterinarians of Ontario (CVO) for investigation. This course of action is critical for several reasons.

Firstly, the CVO is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing the practice of veterinary medicine in Ontario. It has the authority and resources to investigate concerns regarding a veterinarian's fitness to practice. Reporting to the CVO ensures that the matter is addressed by professionals who are trained to assess and handle issues of impairment effectively and impartially.

Secondly, addressing impaired practice through appropriate regulatory channels helps protect public safety. The CVO has mechanisms in place to manage situations involving impaired practitioners, ensuring that both animal welfare and client interests are safeguarded. This action can lead to necessary intervention that might help the impaired veterinarian as well, as they may require support or treatment.

Discussing the issue directly with the colleague, while it may seem like a direct approach, could place both the veterinarian and their colleague in a difficult position, potentially allowing the impaired practice to continue unaddressed. Ignoring the situation entirely would not only fail to protect animal patients and clients but also undermine the professional integrity of the veterinary profession as a whole. Notifying