Project summary
In partnership with the University of Nottingham, RCVS Knowledge is developing an evidence-based quality improvement (QI) model applicable to the veterinary sector. This will support veterinary practice teams with the resources and tools to implement innovative, evidence-based solutions to tackle complex challenges through a One Health lens.
This project is a three-year Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP), which is funded by UKRI Innovate UK. It will enable RCVS Knowledge and the University of Nottingham to integrate highly specialised expertise in quality improvement (QI) with rigorous study design, working with a variety of veterinary organisations, practice groups and animal owners.
Background
In partnership with the University of Nottingham, RCVS Knowledge is developing an evidence-based quality improvement (QI) model applicable to the veterinary sector. This will support veterinary practice teams with the resources and tools to implement innovative, evidence-based solutions to tackle complex challenges through a One Health lens.
This project is a three-year Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP), which is funded by UKRI Innovate UK. It will enable RCVS Knowledge and the University of Nottingham to integrate highly specialised expertise in quality improvement (QI) with rigorous study design, working with a variety of veterinary organisations, practice groups and animal owners.
Examples of the benefits from adopting QI include:
- Better clinical outcomes and improved animal health and welfare.
- Improved team efficiency, cohesion, and communication.
- Enhanced client relations.
- Stronger team wellbeing.
- Development of an evidence driven learning culture.
- Greater economic and environmental sustainability.
Aims
In short, the project seeks to address the challenge of QI through collaborative research, knowledge exchange, and the development of practical QI and evidence-based solutions.
It aims to build on this work to help time-poor practitioners successfully implement QI methods and demonstrate business benefits. These could include helping veterinary practices and businesses to:
- operate more sustainably and efficiently.
- achieve better clinical outcomes.
- improve team wellbeing.
“We are delighted to be forging this partnership with RCVS Knowledge on this unique project to create a framework that veterinary professionals can use to provide the quality care they strive for their patients and clients. Our team are excited to start building the foundations for what will be an evidence-based model, developed using rigorous methods and fitting the needs of all parties. “
Dr Marnie Brennan, Associate Professor in Epidemiology at the University of Nottingham
Approach
The roadmap for the project is as follows:
The QI model will initially be tested within farm practice focussing on calf pneumonia prevention and control, given this is a significant issue that affects animal health and welfare, productivity, sustainability and economic viability. The project will use robust methodology to measure the cost of making the changes against the benefits it brings.
A steering group of vets, farmers, behaviourists and experts in quality improvement and sustainability have been invited to support the project as it progresses – Steering group bios September 2026.docx
Input from stakeholders across the farming and veterinary sectors will also be gained through a research study, with ethical approval given by the University of Nottingham (no. 4683 130726).
In the next phase, we will work with veterinary professionals in companion animal and equine practice to ensure the model is appropriately refined, to be fit for purpose across the veterinary sector.
The completed model will address the following challenges in a practical, evidence-based manner:
- The effectiveness of QI techniques on clinical outcomes and team wellbeing.
- The impact of QI techniques on environmental sustainability in practice.
- The return on investment provided by implementing QI techniques in practice.
“By partnering with the University of Nottingham and colleagues from across the professions, we are developing a practical model grounded in real-world data and shaped by its users. Our aim is to understand whether investment in QI delivers measurable value for practices. By generating clear evidence of QI’s business impact, alongside its benefits for patient outcomes, team wellbeing, and client satisfaction, we aim to support practices make confident decisions about investing in QI.”
Ashley Doorly, Head of Programmes at RCVS Knowledge
Register your interest
This project presents an opportunity for veterinary practitioners to get involved in cutting-edge research and help shape the future of veterinary QI.
Please use the form below to register your interest in our Knowledge Transfer Partnership with the University of Nottingham.