Bill > S354

This bill updates the scope of practice for optometrists in New Jersey. The key provisions include: 1. Expanding the definition of optometry to include the use and prescription of pharmaceutical agents, the performance of simple ophthalmologic and other minor procedures, and the administration of immunizations against coronaviruses, influenza, and varicella-zoster virus. 2. Authorizing the New Jersey State Board of Optometrists to credential optometrists to use and prescribe pharmaceutical agents and perform simple ophthalmologic and other minor procedures, based on evidence of competence. 3. Allowing optometrists who hold an active New Jersey license to perform certain simple ophthalmologic and minor procedures while enrolled in an approved training program and under the direct supervision of an authorized optometrist or ophthalmologist. 4. Permitting optometrists to dispense certain pharmaceutical agents that are delivered to the eye through a contact lens or other medical device, or through any other route of administration approved by the board. 5. Clarifying that patient records are the exclusive property of the optometric practice that rendered the professional services.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/S354