CO SB159

Allows veterinarians to establish a veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR) through telehealth using synchronous audio-video technology, eliminating the current requirement for an in-person physical examination or premises visit

Permits veterinarians to prescribe most medications through telehealth once a VCPR is established, but requires an in-person examination before prescribing controlled substances or antimicrobials for treatment periods exceeding 14 days

Removes the requirement that veterinarians practicing telehealth be available in person at a veterinary premises accessible to clients for follow-up evaluations

Allows veterinary specialists receiving referrals to prescribe medications without conducting their own in-person examination of the patient

Updates statutory terminology from "telemedicine" to "telehealth" and clarifies the definition as delivery of veterinary health-care services through telecommunication systems when patient and veterinarian are at different locations