Improving access to veterinary care (A2VC) is at the core of a recent study published in PLOS One conducted by researchers from Mars Veterinary Health and Michigan State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. By analyzing more than 50 existing studies, the team identified five key dimensions—affordability, availability, accessibility, accommodation, and acceptability—that influence pet owners’ ability to seek veterinary services. The study calls for a consistent framework to help researchers and policymakers identify modifiable barriers and implement more effective interventions. “Previous studies have identified the extent of the problem and defined the nature of the problem, such as geographic location, yet information has historically been limited regarding the consequences, risk factors, and actionable solutions related to A2VC,” says JoAnn Morrison, DVM, MS, DACVIM, director of Global Veterinary Science and Health Outcomes at Mars Veterinary Health. “This study pinpoints the significant opportunity for the veterinary sector to better define what access means and agree on a framework that provides greater consistency that enables us to collaborate on truly effective interventions.” “This review demonstrated that the emerging field of A2VC is challenged with inconsistencies in defining the problem and a lack of consensus on the issues as well as the solutions that are required to remove barriers,” says Annette O’Connor, BVSc, MVSc, DVSc, FANZCVSc, professor at Michigan State University. “We look forward to creating future opportunities to collaborate and contribute in meaningful ways to advance access to care.” The study comes amid growing concern over the veterinary profession’s ongoing staffing shortages and the widening gap in care access across underserved communities. Researchers hope the findings will drive collaboration and targeted solutions to expand care to more pets and families across diverse communities. For more information, visit the MARS Veterinary Health website.
