The first in a series on why you should trust us with your pet’s care.
Patient monitoring during anaesthesia.
What is a BESTPRACTICE® Audit?
Every few years, our clinic undergoes a rigorous audit as part of the BESTPRACTICE® accreditation program. This process ensures we meet the highest standards in veterinary care.
Before the auditor even steps through the door, we submit extensive documentation covering:
- Staff training and qualifications
- Infection control protocols
- Anaesthetic safety management
- Safe prescribing and dispensing of medications
…and much more.
During the visit, the auditor inspects our facility, checks equipment maintenance, interviews staff, and observes procedures in action.
A Look Back
The 2000 Halifax Team
I still remember our very first audit over 25 years ago. One of our veterinary nurses was so nervous about being interviewed that she had to run to the bathroom to vomit! I reassured her:
“Relax. You can’t give a wrong answer. Just describe what you do every day.”
Since then, audits have become part of our culture. They keep us sharp and up to date with the latest developments. This time, the auditor found only a handful of items to improve – sometimes we even achieve a perfect score!
And yes, we celebrate with a post-audit dinner party.
What Does This Mean for You and Your Pet?
Simply put: better outcomes for your pet.
Human error is inevitable, but good systems and protocols minimise mistakes and catch problems before they cause harm. Veterinary practice is complex – we treat a wide range of medical, surgical, dental, and behavioural issues across multiple species, seven days a week.
Our work is supported by an in-house laboratory, pharmacy, X-ray and ultrasound imaging. To make sure everything runs seamlessly, we rely on well-trained staff and robust systems.
Why BESTPRACTICE® Matters
Recognising the need for quality assurance, the New Zealand Veterinary Association developed the BESTPRACTICE® accreditation scheme – the only independent program of its kind in New Zealand.
Practices are audited against either:
- Clinic Standards
- Hospital Standards (the more demanding level)
Participation is voluntary, and sadly, only one in eight vet practices in New Zealand choose to undergo this process.
Why? Because it’s challenging and costly. It requires investment in facilities, equipment, staff training, and ongoing compliance. But in healthcare, the biggest cost is getting it wrong.
Our Commitment to Excellence
Halifax Veterinary Centre was the first practice in New Zealand to achieve Hospital Standards accreditation. Fifteen years later, Massey University Teaching Hospital joined us. At one point, only four practices held this level of accreditation – it’s that demanding.
Our BESTPRACTICE® Hospital Standards accreditation demonstrates our commitment to delivering the best care for your pet. Opening our doors to intensive scrutiny isn’t easy, but it drives continuous improvement.
How You Can Help
We love hearing your suggestions for improving our service. And if you’re happy with the care we provide, please recommend us to your pet-loving friends or leave a review on Google or Facebook. Your support helps us keep doing what we do best!
Warm regards,
Hans Andersen BVSc MANZCVS
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