Nationwide launches pet telemedicine program

Nationwide, in partnership with FirstVet, has expanded its pet telehealth program. Now, nearly half of Nationwide pet insurance policyholders are eligible to quickly access licensed veterinarians for a virtual diagnosis and prescription treatments. 

The new service, available through the VetHelpline® App in qualified states, will closely mirror a virtual doctor’s visit for people. For the first time, it gives Nationwide policyholders the ability to schedule a virtual visit with a licensed veterinarian who can evaluate symptoms, diagnose certain conditions, prescribe medication when appropriate and help families determine whether an in-person visit is needed.  

“Nationwide is focused on making it easier for pet families to access the care and guidance they need. Expanding VetHelpline to include telemedicine gives eligible policyholders another convenient way to connect with a veterinarian and make informed decisions about their pet’s care,” said Joel Carnes, Chief Pet Officer for Nationwide Pet Insurance. 

VetHelpline has offered complimentary teletriage services to members since 2015, relaunching through the VetHelpline app with FirstVet in 2024. This new feature builds on Nationwide’s commitment to making veterinary care more accessible and convenient for its policyholders. Existing teletriage services will continue to be available to help pet parents assess symptoms and determine whether home monitoring, primary veterinary care or emergency care may be appropriate. 

“Many of the concerns that prompt pet parents to seek immediate answers, including skin allergies, minor digestive upset and behavioral concerns, may be appropriate for a virtual consultation," said Dr. Emily Tincher, Chief Veterinary Officer for Nationwide. "Telemedicine gives families another way to connect with a veterinarian, determine the next step in their pet's care and, when appropriate, receive prescription treatment without waiting for an in-person appointment. Telehealth services are designed to complement—not replace—ongoing care from a pet’s primary veterinarian.” 

FirstVet powers the veterinary consultation experience behind the VetHelpline® app. The app has earned a five-star rating in the Apple App Store based on over 7,000 customer reviews, reflecting high levels of policyholder satisfaction with the virtual care experience. 

“Pet owners increasingly expect convenient access to veterinary guidance. Together, we're helping eligible Nationwide policyholders connect with experienced veterinarians when questions arise, often without needing to leave home.” said Caroline Caldemar, Chief Veterinary Officer for FirstVet. 

The telemedicine program is available to policyholders in Arizona, California, Florida, Idaho, Washington, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, as well as Washington, D.C. Teletriage services will continue to be available for all policyholders. If pet parents are concerned that their pet may be experiencing an emergency, they should present their pet for in-person veterinary evaluation immediately. 

To learn more about Nationwide pet insurance and VetHelpline®, visit PetInsurance.com.