The American Association of Veterinary State Boards is the organization that represents all of the state licensing boards. They develop model regulations for the state boards to consider when proposing new rules and regulations. Did you know the AAVSB has a model regulation for the practice of telemedicine?
The AAVSB believes that the utilization of the virtual practice of veterinary medicine and veterinary technology is simply another mode or method of practice, and therefore licensees who practice, either in-person or virtually, are subject to the same standards of practice they would be otherwise. These model regulations support a consistent standard of practice for all licensees. As part of these standards of practice, the licensee must employ sound professional judgement to determine whether telemedicine is suitable and only provide medical advice or treatment when it is medically appropriate.
Some patient presentations are appropriate for the utilization of telemedicine as a component of, or in lieu of, hands-on veterinary care, while others are not. This principle is the same with in-person care; the veterinarian must decide with each patient whether a history and exam is adequate to recommend care, or if further diagnostic tests are necessary.
