Bill > S1592

This bill updates various provisions related to optometrist licensure in Massachusetts, focusing on several key areas. It redefines the practice of optometry as the comprehensive examination, diagnosis, treatment, and management of visual system diseases, injuries, and disorders, as well as related systemic conditions. The bill requires optometrists licensed before specific dates (1984, 1994, and 2021) to retake and pass licensing examinations to maintain their ability to use diagnostic and therapeutic pharmaceutical agents, including glaucoma and oral medications. It mandates that optometrists must have a doctorate degree from an accredited optometry program and pass licensing examinations to practice. The bill also updates requirements for annual registration, including paying annual fees, maintaining continuing education, and potentially participating in medical assistance programs. Additionally, the legislation modernizes language around advertising (allowing optometrists to use professional titles like "doctor of optometry"), updates penalties for practicing without authorization, and removes gendered language. The bill also modifies provisions regarding trade names for optometry practices, requiring prominent display of optometrist names in all locations and advertisements. Penalties for violations range from fines to potential imprisonment, with increasing severity for subsequent offenses.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1592