The bill H. 3223 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by introducing Article 5 to Chapter 69, Title 40, which establishes definitions and requirements for the use of telehealth in veterinary services. Key definitions include "tele-advice," "teleconsulting," "tele-education," and "telemedicine," which collectively outline the various forms of remote veterinary care and communication. The bill stipulates that only licensed veterinarians can establish a veterinarian-client-patient relationship and provides guidelines for maintaining this relationship through both in-person and telehealth evaluations. It emphasizes the importance of obtaining client consent before providing telehealth services and mandates that veterinarians use sound professional judgment when determining the appropriateness of telemedicine for a patient's condition.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 40-69-20 by removing an obsolete definition related to telemedicine. It sets forth that a licensed veterinarian may prescribe medication through telemedicine only if there is an established veterinarian-client-patient relationship, while also allowing for referrals to veterinary specialists who can provide services via telecommunications. The legislation aims to ensure that telehealth practices in veterinary medicine adhere to professional standards and protect client privacy and confidentiality. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 40-69-20
Latest Version: 40-69-20
12/06/2024: 40-69-20