Scope of Practice
Study Demonstrates Safety, Efficacy of OD-performed Capsulotomy
No adverse reactions occurred, and 99% of patients reported subjective improvement in vision.
08/24/2023
New Hampshire Governor Signs Bill Allowing ODs to Administer Vaccines
This includes those for influenza, COVID-19 and shingles. The law takes effect in 60 days.
08/10/2023
Ohio Joins Fight For Optometric Lasers
The proposed bill would permit ODs to perform capsulotomy, trabeculoplasty and LPI, as well as remove certain lesions, give injections and prescribe additional pharmaceutical agents.
08/01/2023
Ophthalmologists’ Analysis Challenges Narrative of Improved Drive Times for OD-performed Laser Procedures
However, the study makes no mention of reduced waiting period when booking appointments with optometrists and other factors relating to the quality, affordability and availability of care.
07/26/2023
AOA: Laser Capsulotomies Performed by ODs Improves Wait Times, Satisfaction
Respondents reported that 89% of patients were able to be seen by their optometrist within a week after cataract surgery, while only 9% could see an ophthalmologist that soon.
07/19/2023
Iowa Gets Anesthesia Injections as Other States Pursue More Scope Gains
The law takes effect tomorrow. In New Hampshire, a bill allowing ODs to administer certain vaccinations heads to the governor’s desk, while New Jersey and Nebraska continue to advocate for legislation proposing the use of optometric lasers.
06/30/2023
New Jersey Introduces Laser Legislation to Assembly, Senate
The identical bills would allow the state’s ODs to perform capsulotomy, SLT, LPI and lesion removal. It would also expand vaccine and prescription authority.
06/02/2023
Alabama Laser Bill Killed Before Senate Vote
Before a scheduled public hearing was even held, Healthcare Committee members nixed the effort with no further explanation. Undaunted, the ALOA vows to reintroduce in 2024.
05/22/2023
Alabama Laser Bill Passes House, California Retools for 2024 Effort
The legislation, which would permit capsulotomy and SLT, will be heard by the Senate Health Committee next week.
05/12/2023
Washington Optometric Scope Bill Signed by Governor
The new law, enacted yesterday, will allow qualified ODs in the state to perform chalazion removal, certain injections and non-cosmetic eyelid surgery, as well as use topical and injectable anesthesia and prescribe oral steroids.
05/10/2023
Upcoming Events
September 22-24, 2023
September 27, 2023
Showcasing Inflammation and IOP Control
Location: Canaletto, Las Vegas, NV
Presenters: Derek Cunningham, OD, and Jessica Steen, OD
Presentation: 7:00 PM PT
Sponsored by Bausch + Lomb
October 3, 2023
Addressing a Major Gap in the Treatment of Dry Eye Disease
Location: Virtual
Presenters: Damon Dierker, OD, and Jennifer Loh, MD
Webinar: 8:00pm ET
Sponsored by Bausch + Lomb
