Pets Can Now be Examined Through Telemedicine
The Border Reports – April 2,2020
PHOENIX, ARIZONA.- In an effort to support Covid-19 “stay home” measures, pets and animals in Arizona can now be examined by their veterinarians through telemedicine, under a new Executive Order issued by Governor Doug Ducey, ensuring pet owners don’t have to leave their home.
The order, according to a press release, opens the door for the first time ever to allow veterinarians to provide medical services to animals, while the state works to slow the spread of Covid-19 through physical distancing measures.
The order also prevents vets from charging more for telemedicine than for an office or in-person visit.
“Even as we physically distance, we want to ensure that pet owners and livestock producers can access the resources they need to properly care for animals,” said Governor Ducey.
“This order allows veterinary professionals to carry out their commitment to caring for Arizona animals, including house pets and farm animals, while Arizona residents practice physical distancing and limit time away from home.”
The Executive Order takes effect today, April 1st, and remains in effect throughout the state’s Public Health Emergency. Under the order:
- The use of telemedicine may be used by licensed veterinarians in Arizona;
- The Arizona State Veterinary Medical Board may establish reasonable requirements and parameters for telehealth services, including recordkeeping, but such requirements and parameters may not be more restrictive or less favorable to providers than are required for veterinary medical services delivered in-person.
- Veterinary providers cannot not charge more for a telemedicine visit than they would for an in-person visit.
