Bill > HB2247

This bill establishes clear guidelines for veterinarian-client-patient relationships, defining the conditions under which such a relationship is formed, which includes the veterinarian assuming responsibility for the animal's health, having sufficient knowledge of the animal (requiring a physical exam within the last year or telehealth under specific circumstances), and being available for follow-up care. It also clarifies that once a relationship is established, ongoing care can be provided via telemedicine, and the relationship extends to other veterinarians at the same practice, but not solely based on record accessibility. The bill outlines specific telehealth services allowed without an established relationship, such as teleadvice and emergency teletriage, and sets conditions for prescribing certain medications remotely, including limitations on duration and types of drugs. For commercial operations, it mandates written agreements and specific oversight from a veterinarian of record. The bill also details requirements for veterinarians practicing via telehealth, including obtaining client consent, informing them about limitations, and ensuring they maintain a certain level of hands-on experience unless they have extensive prior practice. Finally, it specifies conditions for terminating a veterinarian-client-patient relationship to prevent patient abandonment and sets an effective date of July 1, 2027.

Health and Social Services

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2247&Year=2025&Initiative=false