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<chapter num="01" heading="Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics for the Practice of Veterinary Medicine in the State" title_num="15" subtitle_num="14">
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".01" heading="Purpose and Authority.">
    <text>The purpose of this chapter is to set forth standards of professional conduct and ethics for veterinarians and prescribe standards of practice of veterinary medicine in the State. The chapter also implements the laws of Maryland governing the practice of veterinary medicine in the State as set forth in the Agriculture Article, Annotated Code of Maryland, and is issued by the Board pursuant to that authority and approved by the Secretary in accordance with his authority in Title 2 of the Agriculture Article, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".02" heading="Application.">
    <text>This chapter shall apply to all veterinarians licensed and registered in the State.</text>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".03" heading="Definitions.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>Terms Defined.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>“Board” means the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>“Controlled dangerous substance” means any drug, substance, or immediate precursor as listed in Criminal Law Article, §5-101, Annotated Code of Maryland.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>“Department” means the Maryland Department of Agriculture.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>“Dispensing” means direct distribution of products by veterinarians to their clients for use in or on their animals.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>“Federal legend drug” or “veterinary prescription drug” means a drug labeled with the statement “Caution: Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian”.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(6)">
        <text>“High-volume, low-cost spay/neuter facility” means a licensed facility:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Which is regularly used for the treatment of animals by a veterinary practitioner;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Where the sterilization of dogs and cats is the primary function performed by a veterinarian licensed and registered by the Board; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Where the owner complies with the licensing and sanitation standards in COMAR 15.14.03 and 15.14.07.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(7)">
        <text>“Hospitalization” means the confinement of a patient in a veterinary hospital or mobile veterinary clinic for purposes of performing:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Diagnostics;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Therapy;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Monitoring; or</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>Nursing care.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(8)">
        <text>“Prescribing” means transmitting an order that authorizes a licensed pharmacist or the equivalent to prepare and dispense specified pharmaceuticals to be used in or on animals in the manner directed by a veterinarian.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(9)">
        <text>“Secretary” means the Secretary of Agriculture or the Secretary’s designee.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(10)">
        <text>“Specialist” means an individual who has obtained certification from a specialty organization recognized by the American Veterinary Medical Association.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(11)">
        <text>“Surgery” means that both of the following exist:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>A veterinarian treats a disease, injury, or deformity by manual or operative methods; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>A veterinarian or registered veterinary technician administers an anesthetic, injectable sedative, or injectable tranquilizing agent to an animal.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(12)">
        <text>“Veterinarian” means an individual who is licensed and registered as a veterinarian to practice in the State.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(13)">
        <text>“Veterinary hospital” means a building or portion of a building which is regularly used for the treatment of animals by a veterinary practitioner.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(14)">
        <text>“Veterinarian-client-patient relationship” means that all of the following conditions exist:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>The veterinarian has assumed the responsibility for making clinical judgments regarding the health of the animal and the need for medical treatment, and the client has agreed to follow the veterinarian's instructions;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>The veterinarian has sufficient knowledge of the animal to initiate at least a general or preliminary diagnosis of the medical condition of the animal because the veterinarian has recently seen and is personally acquainted with the keeping and care of the animal through either:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>A physical examination; or</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>Medically appropriate and timely visits to the location where the animal is kept; and</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>The veterinarian is readily available or has arranged for emergency coverage or follow-up evaluation in the event of adverse reactions or the failure of the treatment regimen.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".04" heading="Professional Conduct.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>The principal objectives of the veterinary profession are to render service to society, to conserve our livestock resources, and to relieve suffering of animals. A veterinarian shall act in relation to the public, the veterinarian's colleagues, and their patients, and the allied professions so as to merit their full confidence and respect. Examples of conduct which are prohibited by this standard include, but are not limited to, the following:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Using a college degree to which the veterinarian is not entitled or any degree or title granted by an institution declared unworthy by contemporary institutions of its class;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Accepting a fee from the seller of an animal by a veterinarian employed by a buyer to inspect an animal for soundness which is prima facie evidence of fraud;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Guaranteeing a cure;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>Performing or participating in surgery if it is known the surgery was requested with intent to deceive a third party;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>Promoting, selling, prescribing, or using any product, the ingredient formula of which has not been revealed to the veterinarian;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(6)">
        <text>Performing a surgical procedure to conceal or to correct genetic defects in animals to be shown, bred, or sold;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(7)">
        <text>Making payments to any person for referring, attempting to refer, or promising to refer animals to that veterinarian;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(8)">
        <text>Accepting payments from any person for referring, attempting to refer, or promising to promote the sale of services, drugs, devices, appliances, or goods to a client so as to exploit the client for financial gain; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(9)">
        <text>Prescribing or dispensing veterinary prescription drugs outside of a veterinarian-client-patient relationship.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>A veterinarian may not act in an unprofessional or immoral manner in the practice of veterinary medicine.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".05" heading="Choice and Selection of Patients.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>Non-emergency Presentation.  A veterinarian may choose whom he will serve.  Once a veterinarian has undertaken care of a patient, and a veterinarian-client-patient relationship has been established, the veterinarian may not neglect the patient.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>Emergency Presentation.  In an emergency, a veterinarian should render service to the best of the veterinarian’s ability, but this does not require a veterinarian to accept financial responsibility for the care and treatment of any animal.  The following procedures may be performed during an emergency without such actions constituting the establishment of a veterinarian-client-patient relationship:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Initial evaluation;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Diagnostics to assist in the initial evaluation; or</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Initial treatments to stabilize a patient.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".06" heading="Advertising.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>A veterinarian or an owner of a licensed veterinary hospital, limited use veterinary hospital, or animal control facility may not prepare, cause to be prepared, use, or participate in the use of, any advertisement or other public communication containing information about the services of particular veterinarians or veterinary hospitals which:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Contains a misstatement of fact;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Is likely to mislead or deceive because in context it makes:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Only a partial disclosure of relevant facts, including limited hours; or</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Only a partial disclosure of charges reasonably associated with the advertised service;</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Is intended or is likely to create false or unjustified expectations of favorable results, including a guarantee or warranty;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>Contains any other statement that is intended or likely to cause a reasonable person to misunderstand or be deceived;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>Constitutes, is part of, or is a device for carrying out, an otherwise unlawful act;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(6)">
        <text>Contains subjective claims of superiority of skills, services, or products;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(7)">
        <text>Offers a secret drug or treatment; or</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(8)">
        <text>Endorses a product or procedure, unless the veterinarian or licensee is a regular user of the product or procedure and the product or procedure is recognized as reputable by the American Veterinary Medical Association or by a respected scientific journal.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>A veterinarian, or an owner of a licensed veterinary hospital, limited use hospital, or animal control facility may not use the word special or specialty in an advertisement unless the veterinarian performing the procedure or treatment:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Meets the definition of a specialist, as set forth in Regulation 03B(9); and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Is named in the advertisement.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>A veterinarian, or an owner of a licensed veterinary hospital, limited use veterinary hospital, or animal control facility, who advertises the availability of a veterinarian to serve a 24-hour emergency veterinary hospital, shall state clearly in the advertisement whether a veterinarian is personally present at the hospital facility on a 24-hour basis, or is merely on call.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>Veterinarians shall be personally responsible for compliance with the above requirements and shall be prepared to substantiate their compliance to the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="E.">
      <text>The name of a veterinary hospital or limited use veterinary hospital may not contain the word specialty, specialist, or a named specialist, unless:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>A majority of the veterinarians employed by the facility have obtained and maintained certification from a specialty organization recognized by the American Veterinary Medical Association; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>The advertisement lists the names of those veterinarians by specialty and certification.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="F.">
      <text>Before advertising as a high-volume, low-cost spay/neuter facility, a veterinarian or an owner of a licensed veterinary hospital shall provide documentation to the Board of having completed training that promotes and provides advanced spay and neuter education to veterinarians and their staff. Such training may be obtained through an organization approved by the Board, such as the Humane Alliance.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".07" heading="Professional Judgment and Practice.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>A veterinarian, when caring for and treating a patient, shall conform to those minimal standards of care and treatment which are customary among veterinarians in this State.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>If a veterinarian professes to the public or colleagues to be a specialist in a particular area of veterinary medicine, the veterinarian, when caring for and treating a patient, shall conform to the minimum standards of care and treatment which are customary among these specialists.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>A veterinarian may not provide professional services while:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Using any narcotic or controlled dangerous substance, as defined in Criminal Law Article, Annotated Code of Maryland; or</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Under the influence of alcohol or any drug that impairs that veterinarian's judgment or motor skills.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".08" heading="Professional Knowledge and Training.">
    <text>A veterinarian should strive continually to improve veterinary knowledge and skill, making available to his colleagues the benefit of his professional attainments, and seeking, through consultation, assistance of others when it appears that the quality of a veterinary service may be enhanced by consultation.</text>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".09" heading="Maintenance of Professional Standards and Reporting Requirements.">
    <text>It shall be considered a violation of this regulation for any veterinarian to commit any of the following acts of omission or commission:</text>
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>To fail to report promptly when required by law or regulations, any dangerous, infectious, or contagious disease known to the veterinarian;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>To fail to report promptly the results of any tests when required to do so by law or regulation or to apply or report them fraudulently;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>To willfully make any misrepresentation in the inspection of foodstuffs;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>To issue or use fraudulently any health certificate, inspection certificate, vaccination certificate, test chart, or other blank form used in the practice of veterinary medicine, including signing these forms in their blank state and dispensing them as such to the client;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="E.">
      <text>To conduct a practice in violation of the regulations prescribed by the Board for proper sanitary and hygienic methods in the care and treatment of animals.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10" heading="Record Keeping.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>For animals that a veterinarian treats, the veterinarian shall prepare a legibly written record that accurately and thoroughly reflects the treatment provided. At a minimum, the veterinarian's record shall include the following information, as applicable:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>If available, the name, address, and phone number of the animal's owner;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>If available, the name and identity of the animal;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>If available, the age, sex, and breed of the animal;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>The dates (beginning and ending) of custody of the animal;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>A short history of the animal's condition as it pertains to the animal's medical status;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(6)">
        <text>The animal's physical condition at the beginning of custody and the initial diagnosis, if any;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(7)">
        <text>The animal's condition, as evidenced through a physical examination, not more than 12 hours before administration of one of the following:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Anesthetic;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Injectable sedative; or</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Injectable tranquilizing agent.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(8)">
        <text>The treatment provided the animal and if medication is given, the following shall be provided:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Amount in milligrams or the volume and concentration of substance used;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Frequency; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Route of administration;</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(9)">
        <text>The progress and disposition of the case; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(10)">
        <text>The surgery log and anesthetic log, if any.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>The veterinarian shall record the information referenced in §A of this regulation in a timely manner, that is, as soon as practicable after the veterinarian has seen the animal.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>If the veterinarian discovers that the record is incomplete or in error, the veterinarian shall amend the record, being sure to date and initial the amendment.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>A veterinarian shall label each radiograph and any other diagnostic image or picture with the hospital, clinic, or veterinarian's name, the patient's name, the owner's name, and the date the image or picture was taken.  Diagnostics include, but are not limited to, the following:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Ultrasound;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI);</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Computed tomography (CT) scans; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>Any other device that is used to generate an image of a patient.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="E.">
      <text>Patient records shall be kept by a veterinarian for 3 years after a patient's last visit.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="F.">
      <text>Patient Records.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Patients' records are the property of the veterinary practice for whom the records were made.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>If requested by a patient's owner, the veterinarian shall release a copy of an animal's written record to the owner or a subsequent treating veterinarian. The veterinarian may require the owner to pay the reasonable cost of providing the records requested.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>If requested by a patient's owner, the veterinarian shall release temporarily to a subsequent treating veterinarian the original nonwritten record of the animal, such as, but not limited to, radiographs, photographs, electrocardiograms, and slides. The subsequent treating veterinarian shall return these original nonwritten records within 30 days of their receipt or such other time as agreed to by the parties.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>Upon request and if known, a veterinarian shall inform a boarding facility, including a veterinary hospital offering boarding services, which is boarding a veterinarian's patient, whether the animal's vaccinations are current.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="G.">
      <text>The requirements of this regulation apply to companion pet animals only.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".10-1" heading="Client Consent for Companion Animals and Hospitalized Animals.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>For a non-emergency presentation, a veterinarian shall inform the client, in a manner that is understandable by a reasonable person, of the diagnostic and treatment plan. The veterinarian shall provide a written estimate of the charges for veterinary services, and obtain the client’s signature indicating acknowledgement and approval, before a veterinarian performs the following for a companion animal:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Surgery; or</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Hospitalization.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>For an emergency presentation, a veterinarian shall make a reasonable effort to comply with the requirements set forth in §A of this regulation.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>Euthanasia. Consent for euthanasia shall be documented in the medical record by the veterinarian. Consent may consist of the following:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>A form signed and dated by the client or an individual authorized by the client; or</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>If authorization for euthanasia is given orally, the veterinarian shall note this in the medical record, with a witness to the conversation.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>A veterinarian shall maintain a written copy of the client consent and estimate of charges in the patient’s record and shall provide a copy to the client.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".11" heading="Annual Registration.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>A licensee who practices veterinary medicine in the State shall:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Register annually with the Board;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Pay the Board a registration fee, as provided in COMAR 15.14.12.02;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>State on the registration form the licensee's:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Primary practice address, if any;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Business telephone number, if any;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Home (street) address and mailing address if the mailing address is different from the licensee's home address; and</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>Notify the Board in writing of any change in the licensee's name or address (home, mailing, and practice) within 30 days after the change.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>A veterinarian who fails to renew a veterinary license within 12 months following its expiration date shall seek reinstatement of the license before resuming the practice of veterinary medicine in the State.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>A veterinarian may seek reinstatement of the veterinary license if the last registration certificate expired no more than 5 years before the date application is made for reinstatement.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>If more than 5 years have lapsed since the date of expiration of the last registration certificate, the veterinarian shall apply for a new license with the Board, as provided in COMAR 15.14.09.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="E.">
      <text>Reinstatement with the Board requires submission of the following to the Board’s office:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Personal History Form;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Current resume;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Licensure verification from all state veterinary boards with which the veterinarian is licensed or has ever been licensed;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>Proof of the appropriate type and number of hours of continuing education, as provided in COMAR 15.14.10.04, for the period during which the license had lapsed;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>Payment of the reinstatement fee, as provided in COMAR 15.14.12.02; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(6)">
        <text>Provided the veterinarian is approved for reinstatement by the Board, payment of the registration fee, as provided in COMAR 15.14.12.02.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12" heading="Controlled Dangerous Substances.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>To prescribe or dispense controlled dangerous substances, a veterinarian shall have a current:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Federal controlled substance registration certificate; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Maryland controlled dangerous substance registration.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>A veterinarian shall ensure that all controlled dangerous substances are maintained, administered, prescribed, dispensed, and destroyed in compliance with all State and federal laws.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>Schedule II drugs.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Emergency Dispensing. A Schedule II drug may be dispensed upon oral prescription by a veterinarian if the following conditions are met:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Immediate administration of the drug is necessary for proper treatment;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Alternative treatment is not available; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>It is not possible for the veterinarian to provide a written prescription for the drug at that time.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>If an oral prescription is issued under §C(1) of this regulation, the veterinarian shall:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Specify the:</text>
          <paragraph num="(i)">
            <text>Name of the drug;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(ii)">
            <text>Dose strength;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iii)">
            <text>Quantity;</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(iv)">
            <text>Instructions; and</text>
          </paragraph>
          <paragraph num="(v)">
            <text>Warnings; and</text>
          </paragraph>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Prescribe only enough to treat the animal during the emergency period;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>State on the prescription “Authorization for Emergency Dispensing”;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>Within 72 hours, write, sign, and send the prescription to the location that dispensed the drug; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(e)">
          <text>Make a note of the issuance of an oral prescription in the animal's record.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Except as provided in §C(4) of this regulation, a veterinarian shall maintain all Schedule II drugs under lock at all times, with access by veterinarians only.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>A registered veterinary technician may have access to a working stock of Schedule II drugs kept under separate lock.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>Schedule III—V drugs. A veterinarian shall maintain all Schedule III—V drugs under lock when not in use.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="E.">
      <text>Records.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>For all controlled dangerous substances, a veterinarian shall maintain complete and accurate records on the premises indicated by name on the federal controlled substance registration certificate or Maryland controlled dangerous substance registration. A veterinarian may delegate to an authorized employee the daily task of completing these records.</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>A veterinarian or authorized employee shall include the following information in the dispensing record:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Date of dispensation;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Drug name, strength, and the amount dispensed, administered, or wasted;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Client and animal identification; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(d)">
          <text>Identification of the veterinarian authorizing the administration or dispensing of a drug.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="F.">
      <text>Inventory. A veterinarian shall:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Take inventory on the same date once every 2 years;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Sign, date, and record the time inventory is taken;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Maintain records of all Schedule II prescriptions for a period of 5 years, and maintain records of all Schedule III—V prescriptions for a period of 2 years.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="G.">
      <text>Disposal. A veterinarian shall destroy all Schedule II—V drugs in accordance with United States Drug Enforcement Agency rules and regulations.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12-1" heading="Prescriptions.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>A veterinarian may issue a prescription only under the following conditions:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>A veterinarian-client-patient relationship exists; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>The veterinarian is willing to dispense the drug for the patient.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>A licensed veterinarian authorizing a pharmacist to dispense a veterinary prescription drug shall include the following in the prescription:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The name, address, telephone number, and license number of the veterinarian;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>The name and address of the client;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Identification of the animal, through either name or number;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>The species of the animal;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>The name, quantity, and strength of the drug;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(6)">
        <text>Directions for use;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(7)">
        <text>Cautionary statements including, if applicable, expiration date and withdrawal time for slaughter or milk withholding, or both;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(8)">
        <text>Date of issue;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(9)">
        <text>Number of refills; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(10)">
        <text>The signature of the veterinarian.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>When issuing a prescription or dispensing a drug to a client, a veterinarian shall inform the client of the most common known side effects of the drug.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>A veterinarian or employee approved by a veterinarian may transmit prescriptions that are not controlled dangerous substances from the prescriber to a pharmacy chosen by a client, and note such action in the record of the animal belonging to the client. Acceptable methods of transmission include but are not limited to:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Facsimile; or</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Encrypted computer transmission.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="E.">
      <text>A veterinarian may renew a prescription issued by another veterinarian from the same hospital for a client of that hospital if the veterinarian issuing the prescription renewal is in agreement with the need to continue treatment.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="F.">
      <text>A veterinarian may supply a veterinarian at a different veterinary hospital with a prescription drug to alleviate a shortage or supply a need, but may not fill a prescription for a client that has been written by a veterinarian who is not an employee of that hospital.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="G.">
      <text>A veterinarian shall have examined a patient at least once during the preceding 12-month period before renewing any prescription medication for a chronic condition.  If an examination has not occurred, a prescription may not be renewed.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12-2" heading="Dispensing of Federal Legend Drugs or Veterinary Prescription Drugs.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>A veterinarian may dispense a prescription drug only if a veterinarian-client-patient relationship exists.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>A veterinarian shall ensure that all federal legend drugs and veterinary prescription drugs are maintained, administered, prescribed, dispensed, and destroyed in compliance with all State and federal laws.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>A veterinarian shall dispense prescription drugs only to the clients of the veterinarian or to clients of other veterinarians at the same hospital if there is an agreement with the need to continue treatment.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>A veterinarian or authorized employee may not dispense a quantity of drug that is greater than that needed for the treatment of an animal, herd, or flock.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="E.">
      <text>Nonprofessional staff may dispense prescription drugs only after specific instructions have been provided by a staff veterinarian.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="F.">
      <text>A veterinarian or authorized employee shall include the following information on the labels of dispensed drugs:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Hospital name, address, and telephone number;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Name of prescribing veterinarian;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Name of client and animal;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>Name, quantity, and strength of the drug;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>Directions for usage;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(6)">
        <text>Route of administration;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(7)">
        <text>Length of treatment;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(8)">
        <text>Appropriate cautionary statements including, if applicable, slaughter withdrawal or milk withholding times, or both;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(9)">
        <text>Date of dispensation; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(10)">
        <text>Expiration date.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="G.">
      <text>Returned Prescriptions.</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>A veterinarian or authorized individual may not place a prescription returned by a client back into inventory unless:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>The prescription container is unopened;</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>The prescription has not expired; and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>It can be readily determined that the drug was properly stored, labeled, and sealed to preserve strength, quality, purity, and identity during the time between sale of the drug and return to the veterinarian.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>A client may return any drug that does not meet the requirements of §G(1) to the veterinarian or veterinary hospital for proper disposal.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".12-3" heading="Expired Medications.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>A veterinarian may not administer expired medications to an animal.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>A veterinarian may not remove expiration dates from medications.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>Until a veterinarian has disposed of an expired medication, the veterinarian shall package and keep it separate and apart from unexpired medications.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".13" heading="Enforcement.">
    <text>This chapter shall be enforced by the Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners. The Board may suspend or revoke the license and registration of any veterinarian or censure or place on probation any veterinarian for a violation of any provision of this chapter. Disciplinary actions instituted on the basis of this chapter shall be conducted in accordance with the hearing requirements established by the statutes relating to the practice of veterinary medicine in the State and the regulations promulgated under them. Hearings shall be conducted in accordance with procedures adopted by the Board and the Maryland Department of Agriculture and prescribed by the Administrative Procedures Act.</text>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".14" heading="Severability.">
    <text>If any provision of this chapter or the application thereof to any person or circumstance is held invalid for any reason by a court of competent jurisdiction, the holding may not affect other provisions or applications of the regulation and, to this extent, the provisions of this regulation are severable.</text>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".15" heading="Complying with Certain Requests of the Board.">
    <text>A veterinarian shall comply with the following requests of the Board:</text>
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>If summoned to appear before the Board, to appear on the date and at the time indicated in the summons; and</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>Within 15 days after receiving a Request for Production of Documents from the Board, to deliver to the Board all books, papers, records, and other documentary evidence which the Board has requested; and</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>If the veterinarian owns a veterinary hospital, to allow the Board's inspectors to inspect the facility during normal business hours.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".16" heading="Notice of Lack of 24-hour Supervision.">
    <text>A veterinarian who has assumed the care and custody of an animal, but does not provide 24-hour supervision by a paid employee physically in the hospital, where the animals are kept, shall provide the following written notification to the owner of the animal: “We Do Not Provide 24-Hour Supervision”. This notice shall be provided either by:</text>
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>Posting in a conspicuous location within the hospital that is readily visible by the public, such as at or near a receptionist's desk; or</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>Hand delivery to the owner on a piece of paper when the animal is presented for treatment or boarding.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".17" heading="Direct Supervision Guidelines.">
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>In this regulation, the following terms have the meanings indicated:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>“Registered veterinary technician” means an individual currently registered with the Board as a veterinary technician;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>“Responsible direct supervision” means competent, immediate, and active supervision;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>“Technician” means a nurse, attendant, technician, intern, or other employee of a licensed and registered veterinarian who is not a registered veterinary technician.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>A veterinarian giving responsible direct supervision to the work of a technician or registered veterinary technician shall be:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>In the immediate vicinity of where the work is being performed; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Actively engaged in supervising this work throughout the entire period it is being performed, including:</text>
        <paragraph num="(a)">
          <text>Providing clear and specific directions on what work is to be done,</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(b)">
          <text>Being cognizant of how the assigned work is being performed, and</text>
        </paragraph>
        <paragraph num="(c)">
          <text>Being immediately available to provide advice when the assigned work is being performed.</text>
        </paragraph>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>A veterinarian may not permit a technician to perform the following procedures on an animal while the animal is under that veterinarian's care:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>Anesthesia induction by inhalation or intravenous injection;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>Anesthesia induction by intramuscular injection;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(3)">
        <text>Application of casts and splints;</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(4)">
        <text>Dental extractions; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(5)">
        <text>Suturing of existing surgical skin incisions.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>A veterinarian may permit a registered veterinary technician to perform the procedures referenced in §C of this regulation if, when these procedures are being performed:</text>
      <paragraph num="(1)">
        <text>The individual is under the responsible direct supervision of the veterinarian; and</text>
      </paragraph>
      <paragraph num="(2)">
        <text>For the procedure referenced in §C(1) of this regulation only, the veterinarian also is able to maintain direct visual contact of the technician's performance of this procedure.</text>
      </paragraph>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="E.">
      <text>A veterinarian may permit a technician to render auxiliary or supporting assistance or administer medication if, when rendering the assistance or administering medication, the employee is under the responsible direct supervision of the veterinarian.</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="F.">
      <text>In the case of an anesthetized animal, a veterinarian may permit a technician to monitor the animal's condition and provide other supporting assistance, including the animal's maintenance, once the animal is stabilized.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <regulation prefix="Regulation" num=".18" heading="Animal Boarding by a Veterinarian.">
    <text>A veterinarian who operates an animal boarding business in connection with a veterinary hospital is responsible for:</text>
    <paragraph num="A.">
      <text>Caring for boarded animals;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="B.">
      <text>Training staff on the care of boarded animals;</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="C.">
      <text>Instructing staff to report to the veterinarian on duty if a boarded animal is sick or injured; and</text>
    </paragraph>
    <paragraph num="D.">
      <text>Arranging for the veterinary care of any sick or injured boarded animal.</text>
    </paragraph>
  </regulation>
  <annotations>
    <annotation type="Authority">Agriculture Article, §§2-103, 2-304, and 2-310, Annotated Code of Maryland</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Effective date: May 1, 1974</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .01 amended effective November 2, 1987 (14:22 Md. R. 2340)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03 amended effective August 4, 2003 (30:15 Md. R. 992)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .03B amended effective October 15, 2012 (39:20 Md. R. 1308); February 3, 2014 (41:2 Md. R. 92); March 16, 2015 (42:5 Md. R. 487)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .04 amended effective January 26, 1987 (14:2 Md. R. 130); August 4, 2003 (30:15 Md. R. 992); September 12, 2005 (32:18 Md. R. 1521); January 1, 2007 (33:26 Md. R. 1997)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .05 amended effective October 15, 2012 (39:20 Md. R. 1308)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06 amended effective October 6, 1978 (5:20 Md. R. 1501); December 12, 2002 (29:24 Md. R. 1919); March 16, 2015 (42:5 Md. R. 487)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06A amended as an emergency provision effective August 15, 2006 (33:18 Md. R. 1503); amended permanently effective December 7, 2006 (33:24 Md. R. 1906)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .06F amended effective October 29, 1975 (2:24 Md. R. 1483)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .07 amended effective May 7, 1984 (11:9 Md. R. 796); January 26, 1987 (14:2 Md. R. 130); December 25, 1989 (16:25 Md. R. 2714); September 8, 1997 (24:18 Md. R. 1296)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .09 amended effective January 26, 1987 (14:2 Md. R. 130)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10 amended effective January 30, 1984 (11:2 Md. R. 114); April 6, 1998 (25:7 Md. R. 529); September 12, 2005 (32:18 Md. R. 1521); January 1, 2007 (33:26 Md. R. 1997)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10A amended effective June 29, 2009 (36:13 Md. R. 900); October 15, 2012 (39:20 Md. R. 1308)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10D amended effective June 8, 1992 (19:11 Md. R. 1016)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10D amended as an emergency provision effective May 26, 2010 (37:13 Md. R. 850); adopted permanently effective October 18, 2010 (37:21 Md. R. 1437)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10F amended effective June 14, 1999 (26:12 Md. R. 926)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .10-1 adopted effective February 3, 2014 (41:2 Md. R. 92)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11 amended effective October 7, 1985 (12:20 Md. R. 1930); March 29, 1993 (20:6 Md. R. 584); March 16, 2015 (42:5 Md. R. 487)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11A amended as an emergency provision effective March 14, 1996 (23:7 Md. R. 549); amended permanently effective July 15, 1996 (23:14 Md. R. 1011)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11A amended effective March 24, 1997 (24:6 Md. R. 488); June 14, 1999 (26:12 Md. R. 926)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11A amended as an emergency provision effective May 24, 2004 (31:12 Md. R. 908); amended permanently effective September 13, 2004 (31:18 Md. R. 1351)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .11A amended effective January 1, 2007 (33:26 Md. R. 1997)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12 repealed effective January 26, 1987 (14:2 Md. R. 130)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12 adopted effective June 8, 1992 (19:11 Md. R. 1016)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12 recodified to be Regulation .12-3 and new Regulation .12 adopted effective August 4, 2003 (30:15 Md. R. 992)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12-1 adopted effective August 4, 2003 (30:15 Md. R. 992)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12-1G adopted effective July 16, 2018 (45:14 Md. R. 698)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .12-2 adopted effective August 4, 2003 (30:15 Md. R. 992)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .15 adopted effective August 30, 1993 (20:17 Md. R. 1351)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .15C adopted effective June 19, 1995 (22:12 Md. R. 902)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .16 adopted effective June 19, 1995 (22:12 Md. R. 902)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .16 amended effective August 4, 2003 (30:15 Md. R. 992); January 1, 2007 (33:26 Md. R. 1997)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .16A amended effective June 29, 2009 (36:13 Md. R. 900)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .17 adopted effective July 15, 1996 (23:14 Md. R. 1011)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .17A amended effective June 29, 2009 (36:13 Md. R. 900)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .17A, B, D amended effective July 27, 1998 (25:15 Md. R. 1194)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .18 adopted effective March 9, 1998 (25:5 Md. R. 370)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .18 amended effective July 27, 1998 (25:15 Md. R. 1194)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .18 repealed and Regulation .19 recodified to Regulation .18 effective September 12, 2005 (32:18 Md. R. 1521)</annotation>
    <annotation type="History" subtype="Administrative History">Regulation .19 adopted effective March 18, 2002 (29:5 Md. R. 504)</annotation>
  </annotations>
</chapter>