The bill amends section 4741.04 and enacts section 4741.041 of the Revised Code to establish new requirements and procedures for veterinarian telehealth visits. It clarifies that a veterinary-client-patient relationship is necessary for veterinarians to provide care, which can now include telehealth services. The amendments specify that a veterinarian must have sufficient knowledge of the patient, which can be established through in-person examinations, real-time telehealth services, or timely visits to the patient's premises. Additionally, the bill outlines the conditions under which veterinarians can conduct telehealth visits, including obtaining informed consent from clients and providing necessary information about the visit.

The new section 4741.041 introduces definitions related to telehealth, such as "tele-advice," and sets forth guidelines for veterinarians conducting telehealth services. It allows veterinarians to prescribe medications after establishing a veterinary-client-patient relationship via telehealth, with specific limitations on initial prescriptions and refills. Furthermore, it restricts the use of telehealth services for livestock raised for human consumption unless an in-person relationship has been established, although tele-advice can be provided without such a relationship. The bill also ensures that the practice of veterinary medicine is governed by the laws of the state where the patient is located.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 4741.04
As Reported By Senate Committee: 4741.04
As Passed By Senate: 4741.04