OLYMPIA – An important step towards addressing Washington’s veterinary care shortages passed off the House floor today. HB 2247, sponsored by Rep. Lisa Parshley (D-Olympia), adjusts current veterinarian-client-patient relationships to allow for telehealth visits.
“Currently, Washington grades out at 44% for veterinarian coverage adequacy. You don’t need to be a math major to know that’s not good,” said Rep. Parshley. “This legislation is going to get us moving in the right direction here.”
The legislation establishes that telehealth may only be utilized after there is an established relationship between the animal patient and the veterinarian providing care. Veterinarians may deny telehealth when they believe an in-person visit is necessary.
“In our urban areas this is going to a great help to people who have disabilities and mobility issues,” said Rep. Parshley. “But in our rural areas this is going to help farmers and our food supply. It’s a win for Washington”
HB 2247 passed the House by unanimous vote and moves on to the Senate for consideration.