HB 1598 Summary

• Creates courtesy permits for out-of-state licensed veterinarians to practice in Hawaii for up to 30 days (renewable once per 12-month period, not exceeding 60 days total annually) under a Hawaii veterinarian sponsor's supervision.

• Establishes relief permits for out-of-state veterinarians to cover for absent Hawaii veterinarians, valid for up to 30 days (renewable once per 12-month period, not exceeding 60 days total annually), with sponsor not required to be on same island.

• Authorizes Hawaii veterinarians to practice telemedicine within established veterinarian-client-patient relationships; only Hawaii-licensed veterinarians may provide telemedicine to patients located in the State.

• Adds 13 new definitions to Chapter 471 relating to veterinary practice, including "veterinary telemedicine," "veterinary teletriage," "veterinary teleconsulting," and "indirect supervision."

• Allows foreign veterinary school graduates to qualify for licensure examination if they complete American Veterinary Medical Association Educational Commission requirements.

• Effective date: January 1, 2050.