Purpose of the Bill

The main goal of this bill is to update and expand the scope of practice for optometrists in Minnesota. This means it is redefining what activities and procedures optometrists are legally allowed to perform.

Main Provisions

• Definition of Practicing Optometry: The bill outlines several activities that are considered as practicing optometry. These include advertising as an optometrist, using devices to measure vision, diagnosing eye-related issues, prescribing lenses, and providing therapeutic vision care.

• Authorization to Prescribe and Administer Drugs: Optometrists can prescribe and administer certain medications, specifically legend drugs, as part of their care practices. However, certain restrictions are applied to maintain patient safety.

Significant Changes

• Prescription Restrictions: The bill specifies that optometrists cannot administer drugs intravenously, intramuscularly, or through injections other than for treating anaphylaxis. Additionally, the bill restricts the prescription or administration of Schedule II and III drugs, oral steroids, oral antivirals (limited to 10 days), and oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (limited to 7 days).

• Prohibited Practices: It prohibits optometrists from performing invasive surgery, including laser surgery, aligning with definitions and standards set by the American Medical Association and American College of Surgeons.

Relevant Terms

optometry, scope of practice, legend drugs, prescription restrictions, invasive surgery, automated testing devices, therapeutic vision care, schedule drugs, oral antivirals, oral steroids, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, anaphylaxis, American Medical Association, American College of Surgeons.