Iowa Board of Veterinary Medicine Clarifies VCPR Definitions

July 20, 2022 — 

The Iowa Board of Veterinary Medicine (IBVM) updated Iowa's Rule related to veterinarian/client/patient relationships (VCPR) with ARC 6397C. The rule clarifies two previous rules:

• ARC 6212C (effective March 30, 2022) which requires a valid VCPR before a veterinarian may provide medical care or prescribe medications to a patient, and
• ARC 6171C (effective June 10, 2022) which requires a physical examination of the patient or visits to the premises within the past 12 months to establish a VCPR.

To address public comments made in reference to these rules, the IBVM adopted ARC 6397C to clarify definitions and address the responsibilities of veterinarians who provide services in an emergency setting. This rule defines "emergency," "physical examination," and "premises." It also clarifies and revises two of the criteria to allow a VCPR for groups of animals and allows a licensed veterinarian with a valid VCPR to designate another licensed veterinarian to consult or provide back-up care.

ARC 6397C was adopted by the IBVM and became effective on June 14, 2022. Read ARC 6397C here.

Still Time for Public Comment

In order to expedite the adoption of this rule, an emergency adoption was approved by the Administrative Rules Review Committee. To allow all interested parties the chance to comment, the formal rule making process will be used allowing for additional public comment on this rule. The IBVM is requesting public comment on ARC 6403C. The deadline for public comment is 4:30 pm on August 2, 2022. Read ARC 6403C and instructions for making comments here.

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[Soucre: IVMA 19 July 2022]