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.
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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.
