Bill > HB218

This bill expands the scope of practice for optometrists in Montana by allowing them to perform certain in-office surgical procedures and laser surgical procedures, with important limitations. Specifically, optometrists will be able to perform laser surgical procedures on the anterior segment of the eye and adnexa (the surrounding tissue), but will be explicitly prohibited from conducting penetrating intraocular surgery, intravitreal injections, and refractive surgery. To perform these laser procedures, optometrists must first obtain certification from the state's board of optometry, which requires successful completion of didactic and clinical training from an accredited optometry school that covers medically recognized and appropriate treatments for the human eye. The bill also updates the definition of optometry to include "enhancing" visual conditions and allows for treatment of a broader range of eye-related issues. Additionally, the legislation modifies existing law to clarify the types of drugs optometrists can administer and prescribe, and expands their ability to remove foreign bodies from the eye. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025, and are designed to provide optometrists with greater clinical capabilities while maintaining patient safety through specific training and procedural restrictions.

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https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC1814