Dr. Kate Elden, CMO of Dutch on Veterinary Telemedicine, VCPR Laws, AI, and Expanding Access to Care

Dr. Kate Elden (Dutch CMO) on Veterinary Telemedicine, VCPR Laws, AI, and Expanding Access to CareOn the Torat and Drake Veterinary Podcast, Dr. Tam interviews Dr. Kate Elden, recently hired as Chief Medical Officer at Dutch, a telemedicine platform, about her career path from equine practice to small animal general practice, medical director roles, and ultimately telehealth. Dr. Elden describes how COVID accelerated her telemedicine experience and why cost and access barriers keep many pets from receiving care, citing reports that large portions of pets miss veterinary services. She discusses how private equity, rising standards of care, and clinic hours contribute to affordability and access challenges, and argues telemedicine is a key solution despite restrictive state VCPR regulations. They also address AI as a growing tool that still requires a “human in the loop.” Dr. Elden explains Dutch’s guardrails, follow-ups, pharmacy logistics, and her leadership approach, including how parenting shapes her work.00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro01:35 From Horse Vet to Small Animal04:32 COVID Sparks Telemedicine06:47 Why Pets Skip Care09:22 Telemedicine as Access Fix12:27 Inspiring Vets Through Communication17:18 AI and the Future Toolbox20:38 Telehealth Adoption Challenges21:36 Telemedicine Demand Surge23:35 VCPR Laws Explained26:10 State Rules and Licensing27:37 Why Clients Love Telehealth30:11 Follow Ups and Messaging31:21 CMO Role and Guardrails34:46 Parenting and Leadership39:07 Conferences and Closing Advice