Similar restrictions would not be put on dentists, chiropractors or podiatrists, since these doctors’ practice acts define them as physicians. The legislation next goes to the house of representatives.
Guidelines that previously stated that “only” ophthalmologists can perform invasive procedures have been revised to include “or optometrists,” provided the state law allows it.
The highest-funded research products were anti-VEGF agents, glaucoma treatments and IOLs. Just over 200 MDs collectively received two-thirds of the funding.
In a position paper, the AGS cites reasons including “insufficient” training and a lack of evidence to support that scope expansion improves eyecare access.
The state’s nearly 7,000 ODs will soon have the opportunity to pursue laser procedures, lesion removal, several types of injections and corneal crosslinking.
The legislation would permit ODs to perform three laser surgeries, remove lid lesions, give injections and do corneal crosslinking. Backers say rigorous training requirements might mollify detractors.