Nationwide expands pet telehealth to virtual diagnoses and prescriptions

Nationwide has expanded its VetHelpline service with FirstVet, allowing eligible pet insurance policyholders to schedule virtual appointments with licensed veterinarians who can diagnose certain conditions and prescribe medication when appropriate.

The service is available in 11 states—Arizona, California, Florida, Idaho, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia and Washington—and Washington, D.C. Nationwide says nearly half of its pet insurance policyholders are eligible.

Nationwide has offered teletriage since 2015, with FirstVet powering the VetHelpline app since 2024. Teletriage, which helps owners decide whether a pet needs in-person care, remains available to all policyholders. The new telemedicine service adds the ability to receive a diagnosis and, where appropriate, a prescription during a virtual visit.

“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.” – Joel Carnes, Chief Pet Officer for Nationwide Pet Insurance.