Veterinarians licensed in California will be able see and treat their pet patients virtually under a new law that goes into effect on Jan. 1.
Under AB 1399, veterinarians will be able to examine animals on a camera through a telehealth appointment without needing to see them in-person. They can then prescribe medications and recommend treatments, or direct the owner to a clinic for follow-up care.
About the new law
The bill was authored by Assemblymembers Laura Friedman (D-Burbank) and Josh Lowenthal (D-Long Beach) and soared through Sacramento with bipartisan support earlier this year.
California currently requires veterinarians to physically examine a pet patient before prescribing medications or recommending treatments, but AB 1399 removes that in-person prerequisite.
Under the new law, the same standards of care will apply to both virtual and in-person veterinary services. However, there are some limitations.
For example, the telehealth appointment cannot be audio-only or done through a questionnaire — a camera is required. Veterinarians will only be able to treat patients in the state, and they are not allowed to prescribe any controlled substances or medications to horses involved in racing.
Veterinarians will also be required to inform their clients about the “potential limitations of telehealth” and advise them on how to receive follow-up care if their pet has an adverse reaction to treatment.
Gov. Gavin Newsom signed AB 1399 into law on Oct. 8.
How can this help?
Dr. Zarah Hedge is the chief medical officer at the San Diego Humane Society, which co-sponsored the bill. Hedge told LAist there’s a huge issue with…
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