The law allows optometrists to use lasers to perform some “minor surgical procedures,” but this new scope does not include inter-globular injections, retinal procedures, cataract removal or treatment of macular degeneration. However, as technical advances occur, the state optometrists’ board is authorized to approve more procedures in the future.
On Tuesday, a review committee of the Kentucky legislature declined to stop implementing regulations for a law that had been passed in February. To qualify for the surgery, optometrists would have to receive 32 hours of training, which ophthalmologists say is too little time. Another legislative committee and the governor still must review the regulations before they can be implemented.
State Rep. Johnny Bell, the chairman of the review committee, said the law gives rural residents better access to eye procedures. Mr. Bell’s own optometrist said a nearby ophthalmologist has offered him use of his laser.
Related Articles on the Kentucky Law Allowing Optometrists to Perform Eye Surgery:
Kentucky Rules on Eye Surgery by Optometrists One Step Closer to Approval
Kentucky Physicians File Challenge of Plan to Let Optometrists Do Eye Surgery
Kentucky Ophthalmologists Decry Plan for Surgery by Optometrists
