SB 565
Relating generally to practice of optometry
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- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill updates West Virginia’s laws governing the practice of optometry. It clarifies definitions, removes outdated sections, and allows licensed optometrists to perform certain procedures, like laser treatments, that have been trained through accredited educational programs. The bill also establishes rules for prescribing drugs and outlines a scope of practice for optometrists, including procedures such as foreign body removal and lash epilation. Finally, it creates a framework for certification and regulation of ophthalmic laser procedures.
Key provisions
- Defines key terms related to optometry, including ‘Accreditation Council on Optometric Education’ and ‘Certificate holder’.
- Removes obsolete sections from the existing optometry code.
- Permits optometrists to perform specific procedures, such as foreign body removal and lash epilation, that are taught in accredited optometry schools.
- Establishes a drug formulary for prescribing medications to treat visual defects.
- Creates a process for optometrists to obtain certification to perform laser procedures.
- Outlines restrictions on the types of laser procedures optometrists can perform.
- Requires optometrists to adhere to OSHA guidelines and established clinical standards when using lasers.
- Allows optometrists to prescribe and fit contact lenses containing pharmaceutical agents.
Who is affected
- Optometrists
- Patients receiving eye care services
- The West Virginia Board of Optometry
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