Bill > HB2223

This bill modifies provisions of the optometry law in Kansas, primarily by expanding the scope of practice for optometrists and adjusting related requirements. Key changes include allowing optometrists to perform a wider range of procedures, such as the incision and curettage of a chalazion, removal and biopsy of skin lesions, and certain laser treatments, and also permitting them to prescribe and administer pharmaceutical drugs through all routes of administration except intraocular injections for the diagnosis and treatment of ocular conditions. To support these expanded capabilities, the bill introduces credentialing requirements for optometrists performing procedures involving injections or lasers, with specific training mandates for those who graduated before and after July 1, 2020, and requires quarterly reporting of these procedures. Additionally, the bill clarifies definitions within the optometry law, such as the meaning of "adapt" and "dispense," and makes adjustments to professional liability insurance requirements for optometrists who perform these advanced procedures, linking them to the Healthcare Stabilization Fund and its associated surcharge, with an exception if the surcharge exceeds 15%. The bill also expands the Board of Governors of the Healthcare Stabilization Fund to include an optometrist and makes other technical amendments to optometry statutes.

Government Affairs, Health and Social Services

Health and Human Services (House)

https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2223/