Bill > SB85

This bill amends existing Alabama law to further define the veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR), which is a crucial agreement between a licensed veterinarian and a client for veterinary services. Key changes include specifying that a VCPR requires the veterinarian to take responsibility for medical judgments regarding an animal's health, have sufficient knowledge of the patient, be readily available for follow-up care, oversee treatment, and maintain detailed medical records. The bill also clarifies that a VCPR is necessary for a veterinarian to prescribe or dispense drugs and cannot be established solely for drug sales. Furthermore, prescriptions can be refilled for up to 365 days from the initial date, and the VCPR must be reestablished annually. The bill also updates various definitions within veterinary medicine, such as clarifying that an "individual" is now used instead of "person" in many contexts, and adds a definition for "client" as someone who has entered into an agreement with a veterinarian for in-person services. These changes aim to provide clearer guidelines for veterinary practice in Alabama and are set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Health and Social Services

https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/bill-search