Veterinary Facility Inspection Guidance Documents
Resources and guidance for veterinary owners and managers of veterinary facilities.
Veterinary Facility Inspection Guidance Documents
The Board may engage in two types of veterinary facility inspections: random routine inspections and complaint-initiated inspections. Whereas both types of Inspections are performed in a similar manner, complaint-initiated inspections may direct particular attention toward a specific issue.
Inspections are completed to determine if the veterinary facility maintains compliance with the minimum federal, state, and local regulations and standards. The investigator may request certified copies of reports, documents, receipts, radiological images, and/or take pictures during the inspection. During the inspection, investigators may discuss relevant statutes and rules, corrections to meet the minimum standard requirements, or direct people to educational materials found on the Board website. Whereas questions are encouraged so that the managing licensee and/or staff are clear on each issue, it is best that such questions be emailed to the Board.
Licensees are encouraged to review the Veterinary Facility Inspection Checklist and complete a self-inspection of the veterinary facility a minimum of one time per year to maintain the veterinary facility in a condition that protects the health, safety, and welfare of the patients, clients, licensees, and the public.
The Radiation Control Act [O.C.G.A. 31-13] contains the statutory provisions for regulation of radiological equipment in Georgia. Whereas the Board has the authority to inspect radiological equipment and act for any violation of Board Rules, specific authority for legal proceedings for violations of the Radiation Control Act resides with the Healthcare Facility Regulation Division (HFRD) of the Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH). Review HFRD Rules on X-rays >>>
If it is determined that a veterinary facility may be in violation of the specific provisions of this law and the relevant rules, the Board will refer the matter to the Georgia Department of Community Health.
Please visit the Healthcare Facility Regulation Division X-ray site for more information on machine registration requirements.
The Board recommends that the inspection of radiological equipment take place at least once per year by a qualified expert and health physicist. You may identify an individual on your own or select an individual from the non-comprehensive list maintained by the Healthcare Facility Regulation Division.
Download the List of Qualified Individuals and Health Physicists >>>
This list of providers referenced is offered for informational purposes only. It is not an endorsement, recommendation, or warranty of any kind concerning the quality, expertise, or services provided by these individuals or companies. Consult with the provider directly or your legal counsel concerning your specific needs.
It is important and necessary for licensees to remain abreast of any changes that may impact the operation of a veterinary facility. Continuing education and ongoing training on topics such as Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Standards, general sanitary conditions, equipment updates, and radiology certifications enables licensees to update their skills, adapt to changes in industry standards, prepare for future challenges and sustain a successful facility.
In addition to continuing education courses offered on a number of these topics, consider completing RAD 101, a radiology safety certification course offered by the Georgia Veterinary Medical Association, or complete a radiography program accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) to take and pass the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Accredited radiologic technology programs are offered at various Georgia colleges, universities, and technical schools. View a non-comprehensive list of radiology training programs in Georgia >>>
The RAD 101 Course or the list of radiography training programs referenced above are offered for informational purposes only. It is not an endorsement, recommendation, or warranty of any kind concerning the quality, expertise, or services provided by any individual or company listed. Consult with the provider directly or your legal counsel concerning your specific needs.