Bill > H355

This bill establishes comprehensive regulations for veterinary telehealth services in Massachusetts, defining and clarifying the Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR). The bill outlines specific conditions under which veterinarians can provide remote medical services, including establishing that a VCPR can be created through in-person examinations, synchronous audio-video communication, or timely visits to the animal's location. The legislation sets strict guidelines for prescribing medications via telehealth, including limitations on prescription durations for different types of drugs, with special provisions for controlled substances and antimicrobial medications. Veterinarians must obtain client consent, inform patients about telehealth limitations, ensure privacy protections, and maintain professional standards of care equivalent to in-person services. The bill requires veterinarians to have sufficient medical history of the animal, provide contact information, and have backup communication methods. Importantly, the legislation specifies that a VCPR cannot be established through audio-only communication or questionnaires, and only licensed veterinarians in the state can provide telehealth services to animals located in Massachusetts. The bill also allows for emergency telehealth consultations without establishing a full VCPR and permits veterinarians to dispense compounded drugs under specific emergency conditions.

Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H355