The GVMA has worked diligently throughout the legislative process to ensure that SB 105 serves the best interests of Georgia’s veterinary professionals while maintaining the highest standards of animal care.
We are deeply committed to being your trusted source of accurate information and regulatory guidance on this new law.
Clarifying SB 105: What You Need to Know
As your professional association, we want to provide you with clear, accurate information.
Senate Bill 105 amends Georgia’s Veterinary Practice Act to formally recognize and regulate three types of remote veterinary services: veterinary teleadvice, veterinary teletriage, and veterinary telemedicine.
The bill also expands the definition of the Veterinary-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR) to include all licensed veterinarians employed at the same veterinary facility.
The distinction between teletriage and telemedicine is fundamental to understanding this law.
- Teletriage: The remote evaluation of an animal’s condition to determine urgency. Does NOT require a veterinary-client-patient relationship (VCPR).
- Telemedicine: This involves actual diagnosis and treatment and DOES require a valid VCPR, consistent with maintaining professional standards and animal welfare. (The Veterinary Practice Act already required a valid VCPR to practice telemedicine, so no change was made here).
The Facts About SB 105
SB 105 simply clarifies the definitions of these terms, and preserves core services offered by poison control centers, as already written in Georgia code.
Read the Exemptions: O.C.G.A § 43-50-44 (2024)
“This article shall not be construed to prohibit:
(11) Any licensed veterinary technician, veterinary technologist, or other employee of a licensed veterinarian from performing lawful duties under the direction and supervision of such veterinarian who shall be responsible for the performance of the employee;
(13) Any other licensed or registered healthcare provider utilizing his or her special skills, or any person whose expertise, in the opinion of the licensed veterinarian, would benefit the animal, so long as the treatment of the animal is under the direction of a licensed veterinarian with a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship;”
As the recognized voice of veterinary medicine in Georgia, we remain committed to leading on regulatory matters that impact the practice of veterinary medicine.
We will continue monitoring the rollout of SB 105 to ensure it upholds professional standards while preserving access to appropriate veterinary care.
Together, we will ensure that Georgia remains a leader in veterinary excellence while adapting thoughtfully to new technologies and opportunities.
