Michigan Bill Would Enable Telemedicine Visits to Veterinarians

(TNS) — A new bill introduced in the Michigan House would allow telemedicine for veterinary visits, with conditions. This comes at a time when getting a veterinary appointment can be a lengthy process due to a shortage of veterinary services nationwide, the retirement of older veterinarians, high turnover rates, and increased demand.

In Michigan, during the 2025 fiscal year, six counties face veterinary shortages: Saginaw, Chippewa, Leelanau, Calhoun, Washtenaw, and Iron.

House Bill 4200 regulates veterinary licensing and practices.

The bill states that only licensed veterinarians and technicians can practice. Veterinary technicians cannot diagnose, prescribe, or perform surgeries.

The law would allow livestock owners, researchers, and government-employed veterinarians to provide unlicensed animal care as part of their official duties.

As defined by the bill, a veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR) requires regular in-person exams and client consent. Telemedicine — remote care via phone or computer — is allowed under a prior VCPR and in emergencies.

Embed from Getty Images

Telemedicine Limitations:

— Telemedicine can't be used for certain purposes, like interstate health certifications

— It allows prescriptions for a maximum of 14 days (renewable once) without an in-person follow-up

— Prescribing controlled substances requires an in-person or on-site visit

In emergencies, telemedicine would be permitted without a prior relationship but would require follow-up. It would also be allowed for stray or shelter animals without identifiable owners.

The bill regulates who can perform veterinary care, establishes requirements for veterinarian-client relationships, and sets standards for telemedicine in Michigan.

© 2025 the Midland Daily News (Midland, Mich.). Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.