Electronic signaturesignature électronique
An electronic signature is electronic data attached to, or logically associated with, other electronic data, which the signatory uses to sign; the eIDAS Regulation (EU) No 910/2014 recognises three levels: simple, advanced and qualified.
An advanced electronic signature must meet four cumulative requirements under article 26 of the eIDAS Regulation. It must be uniquely linked to the signatory and allow the signatory to be identified. It must be created with signature creation data that the signatory can use, with a high level of confidence, under their sole control. It must be linked to the signed data so that any later change can be detected.
A qualified electronic signature is an advanced signature created with a qualified signature creation device and based on a qualified certificate for electronic signatures (article 3, point 12). Article 25(2) gives a qualified signature the same legal effect as a handwritten signature.
The regulation is general and does not mention veterinary documents. The level to use depends on the document signed and the rules that govern it, and should be checked case by case.
Sources
See also
- Informed consent Informed consent is the agreement a vet must obtain from the owner or keeper of an animal, after explaining clearly the diagnosis, prophylaxis, treatment and prescription (article R242-48 of the French Rural Code).
- GDPR in a vet practice The GDPR (Regulation (EU) 2016/679) applies to the personal data of pet owners and animal keepers that a vet practice collects: identity, contact details, invoices, reminders and communications.