Bill > A4505

Introduced Session

The bill codifies existing regulations to stipulate the requirements for veterinarians to follow when engaging in telemedicine and telehealth. Specifically, the bill provides that a licensed veterinarian is responsible for determining whether providing patient services through telemedicine or telehealth is consistent with the standard of care for those same services provided in-person. The licensee is to also provide notice regarding the risks and benefits of being treated through telemedicine and telehealth. The bill requires the licensee to establish licensee-client-patient relationships in advance of providing services through telemedicine or telehealth. In addition, the licensee will review the patient history through any available records and provide the client with the opportunity to sign applicable consent forms. The bill makes exceptions to the requirement for establishing licensee-patient-client relationships if: the purpose is for an informal consultation without the expectation of compensation; to provide consultation with a medical specialist in another jurisdiction; the assistance is provided in response to an emergency, provided there is no charge for the medical assistance; or, a substitute licensee is acting on behalf of an absent licensee on an on-call basis. Licensees engaged in telemedicine or telehealth are required to use two-way, interactive communication technologies and may use technology to allow for the electronic transmission of images, diagnostics, data, and medical information. Lastly, when telemedicine or telehealth is unable to provide all pertinent clinical information to provide care to the patient, the licensee is required to advise the client regarding the need for the patient to obtain an additional in-person medical evaluation.

Committee Categories

Rosaura Bagolie (D)*,  Roy Freiman (D)*, 

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Regulated Professions Committee (on 06/06/2024)

Official Document