Bill > H7020

This bill authorizes veterinarians in Rhode Island to establish a client-patient relationship with animals using synchronous, audiovisual electronic means, commonly known as telemedicine, provided the veterinarian is licensed in the state and obtains the client's verbal consent, acknowledging that the same standards of care apply as for in-person visits. Veterinarians must use sound professional judgment to determine if telemedicine is appropriate, maintain documentation for at least one year, and adhere to prevailing professional standards. The bill also outlines specific limitations on prescribing medication through telemedicine, requiring initial prescriptions to be for no more than 30 days, with renewals limited to 30 days without an additional examination, and prohibiting the prescription of controlled substances without an in-person examination or visit to the animal's premises.

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