Ohio Lawmakers Loosen Veterinary Telemedicine Rule
A new Ohio law will allow veterinarians to diagnose and treat animal patients via telemedicine without first conducting an in-person physical examination, marking a significant shift in veterinary practice standards. The provision, included in a sprawling state budget bill signed by Governor Mike DeWine on June 30, takes effect September 30.
Ohio becomes the eighth state to remove the in-person exam requirement for establishing a veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR), joining a growing but contentious movement in veterinary medicine. The change has sparked debate between advocates who say it improves access to care and critics who argue hands-on assessments remain essential for accurate diagnosis.
A National Divide on Virtual Care
The move reflects a broader national debate, with similar legislation failing this year in four states while three others reinforced in-person exam requirements. Proponents, including animal welfare organizations, argue telemedicine removes barriers for pet owners in rural areas or those with limited transportation.
However, some veterinarians remain cautious.
Compromise Eases Opposition
The Ohio Veterinary Medical Association (OVMA) initially opposed the bill, citing concerns about antibiotic overprescription, food safety risks, and out-of-state veterinarians treating Ohio animals without licensure. After negotiations, lawmakers added safeguards, including:
28-day prescription limits before requiring an in-person visit
Excluding food-producing animals unless an in-person VCPR exists
Restricting telemedicine to Ohio-licensed vets
What’s Next?
With the law set to take effect this fall, Ohio clinics are preparing to integrate telemedicine more broadly. Meanwhile, other states continue to weigh similar measures, ensuring the debate over virtual vet care is far from over.
