Health occupations: veterinarians; veterinarian-client-patient relationship; require. Amends secs. 16287 & 18811 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.16287 & 333.18811) & adds sec. 18818.

This bill updates Michigan's veterinary laws to formally require a veterinarian-client-patient relationship before a veterinarian can treat an animal. To establish this relationship, a veterinarian must assume responsibility for clinical judgments, obtain the owner's agreement to follow instructions, and have current knowledge of the animal through an in-person exam, a specific telehealth visit, or a visit to the animal's location. The legislation explicitly allows veterinarians to conduct telehealth exams for companion animals using real-time audio and video, provided they have the necessary equipment and are available for emergencies. However, it restricts telehealth by prohibiting remote exams for non-companion animals, forbidding the issuance of interstate health certificates remotely, and limiting remote prescriptions to a 14-day supply without refills. Additionally, the bill mandates that controlled substances can only be prescribed after an in-person examination or a visit to the animal's premises.