SB1954 Summary

• Allows certified optometrists to perform advanced optometric procedures under a written cooperative practice agreement with a qualified ophthalmologist.

• Defines "advanced optometric procedures" in two categories: Category A procedures (foreign body removal, eyelash ablation, amniotic membrane application) requiring 32+ hours of training; Category B procedures (skin tag removal, chalazion treatment, lesion removal, cyst drainage, biopsy) requiring additional education and collaboration requirements.

• Requires optometrists to complete a 12-month educational course developed by the Department with sufficient didactic and clinical training, plus at least 10 supervised cases with actual patients for each procedure type.

• Prohibits optometrists from performing advanced procedures on patients under 18 years of age and excludes procedures requiring general anesthesia, scalpel use, globe penetration, laser use, or suture placement (with limited exceptions).

• Establishes that cooperating physicians can work with up to 5 optometrists and must provide quarterly consultation; cooperation does not require employment relationship or shared payment restrictions.