The bill amends the Public Health Code to establish specific requirements for veterinarians to engage in the practice of veterinary medicine within the context of a veterinarian-client-patient relationship. It outlines that a veterinarian must assume responsibility for clinical judgments regarding an animal's health and must have current knowledge of the animal's condition, which can be obtained through in-person examinations, telehealth consultations, or timely visits to the animal's premises. The bill also sets forth conditions under which telehealth examinations can be conducted, emphasizing that they cannot be used for non-companion animals unless prior in-person knowledge is established.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that if a veterinarian conducts an examination via telehealth, they may prescribe medication under certain conditions, including limitations on the duration of prescriptions and requirements for in-person follow-ups for controlled substances. It mandates that veterinarians provide a list of alternative veterinarians if an in-person follow-up is not feasible. The bill also defines key terms such as "companion animal," "pet health certificate," and "telehealth," ensuring clarity in the application of these regulations.

Statutes affected:
Substitute (H-3): 333.1101, 333.25211
House Introduced Bill: 333.1101, 333.25211
As Passed by the House: 333.1101, 333.25211