Authorizes veterinarians to establish a client-patient relationship through electronic means, subject to limitations and requirements such as Vet making a good faith effort to determine if care should be provided through telemedicine instead of in person.
Impact
The enactment of this bill is expected to significantly enhance the practice of veterinary medicine in Rhode Island by integrating telemedicine into veterinary services. This expansion may lead to improved access for pet owners, especially in rural areas where veterinary services may be limited. By permitting virtual consultations, the bill aims to accommodate the circumstances of both the animals and their owners, which could prove beneficial during situations where immediate physical examinations are not feasible.
Summary
Bill S0647 proposes amendments to existing laws in Rhode Island regarding veterinary practices, particularly focusing on establishing veterinarian-client-patient relationships through electronic means. The bill is designed to authorize veterinarians to engage with clients remotely, allowing for consultations and diagnoses without the necessity for in-person visits, as long as specific prerequisites are met. The bill emphasizes the continuity of care and ensures that all interactions comply with established state regulations concerning veterinary practice.
Contention
Notable points of contention regarding S0647 revolve around the appropriate standards of care when transitioning from traditional in-person veterinary visits to electronic consultations. Critics may raise concerns about the effectiveness of remote diagnosis without a physical examination, especially in complex cases requiring comprehensive veterinary oversight. Moreover, the requirement for initial in-person establishment of the veterinarian-client relationship could be viewed as a necessary safeguard or as a hindrance to the convenience intended by the bill's proponents.
Establishes the first Green Justice Zone, a model that may be replicated in future years to ensure that all communities throughout the state have clean air and clean water.
Establishes the process to provide a legal mechanism whereby a terminally ill patient may choose to end their life using medications prescribed by a physician.
Establishes the process to provide a legal mechanism whereby a terminally ill patient may choose to end their life using medications prescribed by a physician.
Amends definition of "authorized representative" in the confidentiality of health-care communications/information act provides that an authorized representative may include any heir-at-law when the patient is deceased/the personal representative is absent
Amends definition of "authorized representative" in the confidentiality of health-care communications/information act provides that an authorized representative may include any heir-at-law when the patient is deceased/the personal representative is absent
Establishes the RI ombud for special education who ensures school districts throughout the state meet the minimum standards required to comply with the individualized education programs for students with disabilities.
Establishes a safe and reasonable regulatory framework for companies and drivers providing non-emergency medical transportation services to a population of vulnerable passengers through coordination with the state's health and human service agencies.
Health occupations: veterinarians; veterinarian-client-patient relationship; require. Amends secs. 16287, 18811 & 18814 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.16287 et seq.) & adds sec. 18818.
Veterinary medicine; veterinarian-client-patient relationship further provided; refilling prescription regulations; relationship shared among a location, provided