AAVSB Guidelines for Telehealth in Veterinary Medicine
- Dr. Zeke Zekoff
- May 1
- 1 min read
The American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB) has provided guidelines for the use of telehealth technologies in veterinary practice to ensure quality care and patient safety.
Key Definitions
The guidelines define important terms:
Telehealth: encompasses all technology-driven remote delivery of health information and education, including telemedicine and general advice.
Telemedicine: refers to the remote delivery of healthcare services like assessments and consultations, enabling veterinarians to evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients remotely.
Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR): This is essential and exists when the veterinarian assumes responsibility for medical judgments, has sufficient knowledge of the animal, and is available for follow-up care.
Key Guidelines
Licensure: Veterinarians and veterinary technicians must be licensed in the jurisdiction where the VCPR is established.
Evaluation and Treatment: Veterinarians must use professional judgment to determine if telehealth is appropriate, establish a VCPR, obtain informed consent, and conduct patient evaluations according to standards of care. They must also protect client and patient confidentiality.
Continuity of Care/Medical Records: Veterinarians are required to maintain thorough medical records.
Emergency Services: Teletriage can be performed without a VCPR or informed consent in emergency situations.
Prescribing Medications: A VCPR is required for prescribing medications, and it's up to the veterinarian's professional judgment.
Telemedicine Service Requirements: Providers must ensure clients know the veterinarian's information and have a way to access/amend information and register complaints.
These guidelines aim to help regulatory boards navigate the complexities of telehealth in veterinary medicine, balancing access to care with patient safety.
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