The proposed bill amends the Public Health Code by adding Section 18818, which establishes specific requirements for veterinarians to engage in the practice of veterinary medicine within the context of a veterinarian-client-patient relationship. Key provisions include the veterinarian's responsibility for clinical judgments regarding the animal's health, the necessity for current knowledge of the animal's condition, and the availability of the veterinarian for emergency situations. The bill also outlines the conditions under which a veterinarian may conduct examinations through telehealth, emphasizing that certain limitations apply, such as the prohibition of electronic examinations for non-companion animals or for issuing health certificates.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that if a veterinarian establishes a relationship through telehealth, they may prescribe medications under specific conditions, including limitations on the duration and refills of prescriptions without an in-person examination. The veterinarian must also inform the animal's owner about the availability of prescriptions at pharmacies and comply with federal and state laws regarding drug prescriptions. The bill defines key terms such as "companion animal," "pet health certificate," and "telehealth," ensuring clarity in the application of these regulations. The enactment of this bill is contingent upon the passage of Senate Bill No. 194.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 333.1101, 333.25211