Jersey's vet practices advised to improve price transparency

Jersey's competition watchdog has sent an open letter to vets following an investigation in the UK that uncovered several issues.

The UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) recently identified concerns over a lack of price transparency, barriers to consumer choice and outdated frameworks.

As a result, the Jersey Competition Regulatory Authority (JCRA) has now advised local vets practices here look at:

• Publishing price lists and providing itemised bills for treatments,

• Offering written estimates for treatments over a certain threshold,

• Maintaining a clear and accessible complaints procedure,

• Informing pet owners about alternative options, such as online prescriptions,

• Disclosing ownership structures to avoid potential conflicts of interest.

The JCRA says it is aware that the same issues may not appear in Jersey, but it sees value in sharing the CMA's guidance as an 'opportunity for practices here to reflect'.

"We recognise vet businesses do typically publish prices for certain services.

"However, the benefits of the CMA’s recommendations for pet owners are clear, and we see this as a good opportunity for vet businesses to consider whether, in light of these provisional findings, improvements can be made in Jersey.

"It may be that implementing the CMA recommendations could lead to improvements which will enable consumers to make better informed decisions, compare prices, and feel more confident about the choices they are making for their pets’ care.

"Ultimately, the goal is to make sure that the veterinary sector in Jersey remains competitive, transparent, and consumer-friendly."

JCRA Chief Operating Officer Sarah Price says veterinary professionals in Jersey provide a vital and trusted service to pet owners.

"Our aim in sharing the CMA’s findings is to encourage reflection and transparency, helping ensure the relationship between vets and pet owners remains positive and built on trust.

"Transparency around pricing and ownership helps consumers make informed choices and strengthens confidence in essential services like veterinary care."

The authority will continue to monitor any developments from the UK investigation, which will in turn lead it to consider whether a further review is necessary for the benefit of Jersey's veterinary market.