Healthcare (Telehealth)

SB 190 creates a temporary permit allowing veterinarians trained outside the U.S. or Canada to practice under supervision while working toward full certification. It specifically applies to those with a veterinary degree from an internationally recognized program, who have passed required exams and are pursuing credentialing through the Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates (ECFVG) or equivalent. The permit, valid for up to one year without renewal, requires direct supervision by a licensed veterinarian with at least four years of experience and expires if certification is not obtained. This policy aims to expand access to veterinary services by enabling qualified foreign-educated vets to contribute sooner while meeting state standards.

SB 342 requires health insurers and health care providers to use consistent reimbursement rates for outpatient services, regardless of where care is delivered (e.g., office, hospital, or telehealth) or the provider's affiliation. It prohibits insurers from automatically downcoding claims using algorithms without clinical review by a qualified peer. The bill mandates equal reimbursement rates for similar services within the same geographic area and includes a requirement for contracts to clearly state compliance with these rules. These changes directly affect insurers, hospitals, and clinics by standardizing payment practices for covered outpatient benefits starting July 2026.