NY S07440

Authorizes optometrists to prescribe specified oral medications for treating eye diseases, including antibiotics, antihistamines, antiglaucoma agents, antivirals, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Requires optometrists prescribing oral medications to complete a certification course of at least 40 hours (with minimum 24 hours of live instruction) approved by the department, with curriculum developed by New York state accredited colleges of optometry and medical schools.

Optometrists certified after January 1, 2006 and passing the National Board of Examiners in Optometry test are exempt from the certification course requirement.

Mandates 39 additional hours of continuing education per triennial registration period for optometrists certified to use oral medications, and requires quarterly reporting of oral prescriptions to the department for five years following initial course approval.

Establishes a committee consisting of a pharmacist, optometrist, ophthalmologist, and public health expert to review prescribing data and ensure patient safety, with authority to refer non-compliant optometrists for investigation and disciplinary action.