HB 261 Summary

• Removes the word "topical" from definitions and regulations governing ocular pharmaceutical agents, allowing certified optometrists to administer and prescribe ocular pharmaceutical agents beyond just topical applications for diagnosing and treating eye conditions.

• Authorizes the Board of Optometry to adopt rules for administration and prescription of ocular pharmaceutical agents and requires a formulary committee composed of two certified optometrists, two board-certified ophthalmologists, and one pharmacologist to review and recommend changes to the formulary.

• Expands the definition of "licensed practitioner" in clinical laboratory statutes to include optometrists licensed under chapter 463, allowing optometrists to operate clinical laboratories and submit specimens to licensed clinical laboratories.

• Includes certified optometrists in Florida's Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act as eligible practitioners, while prohibiting them from administering or prescribing Schedule I or Schedule II controlled substances.

• Takes effect July 1, 2012.