FL S0718

Authorizes certified optometrists to administer and prescribe ocular pharmaceutical agents (not limited to topical agents only) for diagnosis and treatment of eye conditions.

Revises the formulary committee composition to require two certified optometrists and updates the process for formulary modifications.

Includes optometrists licensed under chapter 463 in clinical laboratory regulations, allowing them to operate laboratories for exclusive patient use and submit specimens to licensed clinical laboratories.

Increases the burden of proof for medical negligence claims against health care providers and emergency health care providers from "greater weight of evidence" to "clear and convincing evidence," effective October 1, 2012.

Permits certified optometrists to be recognized as "practitioners" under Florida's drug control laws but prohibits them from administering or prescribing Schedule I and Schedule II controlled substances.