Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves has signed into law a measure allowing optometrists to perform certain procedures and prescribe certain medications that were previously off-limits.
According to Healio, affected areas include:
- Oral steroids
- Injectable authority
- Removal of chalazion
- Removal of noncancerous growths in and around the eyelid
- Laser capsulotomies
The expanded scope goes into effect July 1. To perform the additional procedures, ODs will need to sign up for extra training, according to Healio.
WDAM-TV previously quoted Dr. Ryan Wally, an OD at Oxford Eye Clinic & Optical, saying the bill would “bring better access to care for Mississippians.” He said it would also bring Mississippi in line with nearby states.
“… Right now some of these procedures that we’re not allowed to do we have to refer out to our colleagues in ophthalmology,” Wally said. “And many times … it’s a bit of a travel or it’s even a bit of a wait.”
Read more at Healio
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