The practice of veterinary medicine has undergone a transformative shift in recent years, with the advent of telehealth technology emerging as a game-changer in the industry.
Florida, known for its progressive approach to healthcare, has taken a significant step forward after Goverbore DeSantis signed HB 849 or the “Providing Equity in Telehealth Services Act” Friday.
The PET Act promises to redefine the landscape of veterinary care, empowering licensed practitioners to use digital platforms to serve their patients more effectively.
This legislation addresses the nuances and complexities surrounding the practice of veterinary telehealth and sets the stage for a new era of accessible, efficient, and innovative veterinary services for the people and pets of Florida.
Read: Unpacking Florida’s Homestead Exemption Overhaul HB 7019 Signed By Gov. DeSantis
The PETS Act grants the Florida Board of Veterinary Medicine the authority to oversee the practice of veterinary telehealth, regardless of the physical location of the practitioner’s office.
This means that the board’s jurisdiction extends beyond geographical boundaries, ensuring a consistent and comprehensive regulatory framework for this emerging field of telehealth.
Notably, the legislation stipulates that the practice of veterinary medicine is deemed to occur when either the veterinarian, the patient, or both are located within the state of Florida during the telehealth interaction.
A crucial aspect of the legislation is the requirement for veterinarians practicing telehealth to establish a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR) before engaging in any remote veterinary services. This relationship serves as the foundation for the provision of care, ensuring that the veterinarian has a thorough understanding of the patient’s medical history and can make informed decisions about the most appropriate course of action.
To establish a VCPR through telehealth, the veterinarian must conduct an initial patient evaluation using synchronous, audiovisual communication. This evaluation cannot be performed solely through audio-only communication, text messaging, or other similar means, emphasizing the importance of visual assessment in the diagnostic process.
Read: FDLE Makes Arrest For Petition Circulator Fraud In Florida Casino Gaming Initiative
“With many Floridians struggling to access veterinary care amidst a veterinary shortage, empowering veterinarians to use telehealth technology will provide another tool for veterinarians to reach more pet patients to help reduce animal suffering, keep more pets in their homes, and extend the capacity of animal shelters to serve their communities,” said Jennifer Hobgood, ASPCA senior director of state legislation for the Southern Division.
“The ASPCA is grateful to Senator Bradley and Representatives Killebrew and Buchanan for championing the PETS Act to modernize Florida’s veterinary laws and increase legal veterinary telehealth options,” Hobgood said in a March statement.
The legislation also addresses the critical issue of medication prescriptions within the context of veterinary telehealth. Veterinarians practicing telehealth are granted the authority to order, prescribe, or make available certain medications, but with specific limitations and requirements.
“This legislation gives veterinarians the professional flexibility to offer telehealth services and opens more doors to the veterinary healthcare system for pet owners who face difficulties accessing veterinary care for their pets, including senior citizens, working families, disabled individuals, and Floridians who live in rural areas and other veterinary deserts,” said Sen. Bradley.
For instance, prescriptions based solely on a telehealth evaluation may be issued for up to one month for products labeled solely for flea and tick control, and up to 14 days of treatment for other animal drugs.
However, these prescriptions cannot be renewed without an in-person examination.
Furthermore, veterinarians are prohibited from prescribing certain controlled substances or compounded medications without conducting an in-person physical examination or making medically appropriate and timely visits to the premises where the animal is kept.
To maintain the continuity of care and address potential technological or equipment failures, the legislation requires veterinarians practicing telehealth to provide their clients with specific information. This includes the veterinarian’s name, license number, and contact details, as well as the contact information for at least one physical veterinary clinic in the vicinity of the patient’s location. Additionally, veterinarians must inform clients of the availability of follow-up care or assistance if needed.
By establishing these safeguards, the “Providing Equity in Telehealth Services Act” ensures that clients have access to essential resources and support, even in the event of unforeseen technical challenges or adverse reactions to treatment.
Help support the Tampa Free Press by making any small donation by clicking here.
Android Users, Click To Download The Tampa Free Press App And Never Miss A Story. Follow Us On Facebook and Twitter. Sign up for our free newsletter.