P R E S S   R E L E A S E

Secretary of State BEV CLARNO The State of Oregon

CONTACT: Rich Vial | 503-986-2209 | rich.vial@oregon.gov

DATE: November 14, 2019

State Bev Clarno Releases Audit of the Oregon Veterinary Medical Examining Board 

SALEM, OR — The Oregon Veterinary Medical Examining Board can do more to help prevent abuse and diversion of controlled substances stemming from the veterinary industry, according to an audit released by Secretary of State Bev Clarno today. The findings are outlined in the report, entitled: “The Oregon Veterinary Medical Examining Board’s Monitoring of Controlled Substances Needs to Be Strengthened.”

Although veterinarians and certified veterinary technicians may handle controlled substances and are responsible for the health and safety of pets and pet owners, auditors found veterinary facility inspections do not include processes to review the ordering and distribution of controlled substances. Furthermore, veterinarians and technicians are not required to undergo background checks either at initial licensing or when renewing their license. A 2014 audit recommended this action, but the recommendation was never implemented. Finally, veterinarians are not required to query or report to the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program when dispensing controlled substances.

“Opioid abuse and addiction continues to plague Oregonians every day,” said Secretary of State Bev Clarno. “We need to ensure we, as a state, are doing everything possible to combat this epidemic. A proactive approach to monitoring veterinarian handling and dispensing would be an effective way to prevent future addiction problems before they occur.”

The board agreed with all of our recommendations and recently initiated rule changes.

Read the full audit on the Secretary of State website.