Bill > HB664

This bill amends existing law to allow registered veterinary technicians (RVTs) to establish a veterinarian-client-patient relationship on behalf of a veterinarian for the specific purposes of administering vaccines and antiparasitic medications to dogs and cats. This means an RVT can, under certain conditions and with proper protocols in place, act as the veterinarian's representative in these limited situations, even if the veterinarian is not physically present but available by phone. The bill outlines detailed requirements for a written protocol that the veterinarian must establish, covering aspects like obtaining medical history, examining the animal, identifying contraindications, handling adverse reactions, and thorough documentation of all procedures and client communications. Both the veterinarian and the RVT must sign agreements acknowledging the authorization and the veterinarian's assumption of risk for the RVT's actions, with exceptions for willful cruelty or gross negligence by the RVT. Clients must also be informed that the RVT is acting on behalf of a licensed veterinarian and provide consent before the RVT proceeds with the examination and administration of medication. The term "covered animal" is defined as a dog or a cat, and "antiparasitic medication" refers to drugs used to control internal or external parasites.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/hb664