Rogers: Don’t change telemedicine rules for animals

Misdiagnoses could threaten animals, investments and food supply.

There’s a movement afoot in the Texas Legislature to allow veterinarians to diagnose problems and prescribe treatment over video.
 
As a veterinarian for 45 years, with a variety of career experiences, I know that telemedicine — done right — is a tremendous tool for veterinarians, our patients and their owners. I also know the great dangers that go along with treating a new patient or group of animals without first closely examining an individual animal or performing an initial evaluation of livestock. But that’s just what a proposed new law would do. The fallout would endanger Texas’ nearly $15 billion-a-year food animal industry as well as our pet cats, dogs and parakeets.
 
Since much of my personal experience comes as a cattle veterinarian, let me start there. The appropriate use of telemedicine allows cattle veterinarians to care more effectively for animals spread over thousands of acres. For herds we’ve visited and owners we know, telehealth is a great way for us to provide consultations and guidance on individual animal treatments and herd level recommendations.
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