Limited Licensure Competency Assessment Pathway Pilot Executive Summary
The MVMA is currently reviewing a Limited License model as a faster, competency-based pathway to veterinary licensure in Manitoba. This approach would allow veterinarians to practice specifically within their demonstrated area of expertise. For example, a small animal veterinarian would remain focused on small animal medicine.
Since 2022, MVMA Council has been engaged with a national pilot project designed to test and validate this model. The pilot demonstrated strong potential to support safe, targeted licensure and improve access to veterinary services across Manitoba. Before this pathway can be implemented in the province, it will require a bylaw change and a formal member vote. The MVMA is committed to keeping members informed and engaged throughout this process.
The pilot project, known as the Limited Licensure Competency Assessment Pathway (LLCAP), was launched by the Canadian Council of Veterinary Registrars with support from the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association’s Workforce Shortage Project. It was developed in response to Canada’s growing veterinarian shortage. Traditional licensing demands broad expertise across species, which can block internationally educated vets with focused, advanced experience.
The LLCAP offers a practical alternative. It assesses internationally trained vets with specialties in production animals, small companions, or equine practice. It lets candidates earn limited licensure based on proven skills instead of standardized exams.
The pilot’s goal was simple: build and test a competency-based model that stands as a solid, sustainable alternative. Candidates submit a portfolio demonstrating their skills and then complete supervised practice in real-world settings under assessor guidance. The process aligns with the 2022 North American Essential Competency Profile for Veterinary Medicine.
22 candidates entered; 17 advanced to supervised practice. The portfolio submission process played a crucial role in identifying competency gaps and helping candidates understand the expectations of supervised practice. Key insights emerged during supervised practice, particularly around clinical decision-making and adaptability. 12 candidates successfully passed this phase.
The report includes recommendations to sharpen the pathway’s reliability and usability. Design choices prioritize defensible assessment outcomes, fit for experienced professionals, and capable of drawing sound conclusions on candidate competence.
In short, the LLCAP pilot confirmed that a competency-based approach is effective and practical for limited licensure. Real-world assessments deliver meaningful results. With improvements in assessor consistency, candidate readiness, and process standardization, this pathway is poised for expansion.