As with every new technology, there comes with it a legal minefield which must be understood to avoid offending the regulatory authorities. With the advent and adoption of telehealth and telemedicine, veterinarians from across the state may now see patients, with less overhead, saving the customer money. But is this Read more…
In the firm’s 16-year history, we have represented several hundred veterinarians. Most being the unfortunate recipients of a complaint which are all investigated and fully vetted by the Veterinary Medical Board (“Board”). Although we have a pretty stellar track record of convincing the Board to close its investigation, that, is Read more…
One of Simas & Associates, Ltd.'s main areas of practice involves representing clients with health care or professional licenses who are under investigation. In June 2017, Simas & Associates achieved a personal record in closing seven different investigations within a week's period. As described below, the majority of these cases Read more…
A couple years ago, we published blog post entitled, “Veterinary Medical Board Taboo: ‘Veterinary Technician.’” (https://simasgovlaw.com/media/blog/veterinary_technician/) In that, we discussed Business and Professions Code section 4893.5 which states: No person shall use the title “registered veterinary technician” or “veterinary technician,” or any other words, letters, or symbols, including, but not Read more…
Within the last month, the Veterinary Medical Board (“Board”) elected to close two investigations into veterinarians Simas & Associates, Ltd. represented. In both cases the Board closed the investigation without so much as a letter of education, which is typically the least invasive form of discipline. In these two cases however, Read more…
States are cracking down on harm to animals. California is no different: see Fines for Pet-Patient Harm to Increase. However, there is a big emphasis in making Veterinarians mandatory reporters of harm. By mandatory reporter, this means imposing an affirmative duty upon Veterinarians, Registered Veterinarian Technicians, and Veterinary Support staff Read more…
The practice of veterinary dentistry in California is governed by Section 4826 of the Business and Professions Code and Section 2037 of the California Code of Regulations. The laws are clear in stating that performing dentistry upon an animal is the practice of veterinary medicine and needs to be done Read more…
The Veterinary Medical Board (VMB) has proposed a regulatory action to adopt a new section that they believe will better protect animal patients and California consumers. The proposed regulation will allow licensed physical therapists and registered veterinarian technicians to perform animal rehabilitation under the direct supervision of a veterinarian. Currently, Read more…
As we start to make preparations to celebrate Independence Day and the founding of the U.S., please be mindful of your (and your neighbors’) pets. Many people enjoy the booming sounds and flashing lights of fireworks to celebrate the 4th of July, but pets almost unanimously do not. In fact, they Read more…
This blog entry is the third of a three-part series of entries regarding issues that Veterinarians face when there is a change in the practice relationship. This can be a veterinarian leaving a practice, a clinic selling a practice, or a practice that is closing. The series examines the following questions: Read more…