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Bill

HB 3364

Relating to the establishment of a veterinarian-client-patient relationship and to the practice of veterinary medicine by telephone or electronic means.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Briscoe Cain and 14 co-sponsors

HB 3364 authorizes Texas veterinarians to conduct remote consultations via phone or electronic means while establishing legal standards for veterinarian-client-patient relationships in telemedicine contexts.

Committee report sent to Calendars
#animals(i0035) #occupationalregulation--healthoccupations(i0540) #veterinarians(s0072) #veterinarymedicalexaminers #stateboardof(v0118)
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Bill Summary · HB 3364

Legislative bill overview

HB 3364 establishes legal frameworks for veterinarians to conduct practice via telephone or electronic means in Texas, and defines the requirements for establishing a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR) through remote communication. The bill modernizes veterinary practice regulations to permit telemedicine services while maintaining professional standards and oversight.

Why is this important

Remote veterinary services can increase access to care in rural areas, reduce costs for routine consultations, and provide emergency guidance outside standard business hours. However, this requires clear legal boundaries since some veterinary services (physical examinations, surgeries, certain diagnostics) cannot safely be performed remotely, making the statutory definition of VCPR critical for consumer protection and professional liability.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope limitations: Disagreement over which services qualify for remote delivery versus those requiring in-person evaluation; overexpansion could compromise animal welfare
  • Professional standards enforcement: Concerns about monitoring remote practitioners' adherence to quality standards and preventing unqualified providers from operating under telemedicine rules
  • Insurance and liability: Uncertainty about malpractice coverage, liability allocation, and consumer recourse when remote consultations result in missed diagnoses or inadequate treatment

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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