How to Improve the Scope of Optometry Practice with New Legislation?
Education and training are the two differences considered primary between ophthalmologists and optometrists. While ophthalmologist is the physician who “specializes in the refractive, medical and surgical care of the eyes and visual system and in the prevention of disease and injury”; an optometrist "examines the eye for vision prescription and corrective lenses and examining, diagnosing, treating, and managing disorders of the eye and visual system." Ophthalmology is surgical while optometry composes the non-surgical management of the eye diseases. However, there have been attempts by some states' optometry organizations to pass legislation for allowing certain surgery licenses/authorizations to optometrists. This has triggered a chain of events: It all began in 1937 when Pennsylvania, headed by Albert Fitch, wished to extend the scope of optometry and enable them to use diagnostic as well as therapeutic pharmaceutical agents. It was in 1958 that Pennsylvania Optometric Association to vote in convention assembled to “institute the effort to amend the optometry act to permit the examination of the human eye without restriction as to method of procedure.” Between 1968 and 1998, a small optometric revolution began. The insurgents sought to address “rumblings and discontent among the younger optometrists who were dissatisfied with the imbalance between the scope of responsibility and educational preparation.” In 1968, "The La Guardia Conference" was held to raise the profession. Dr. Heffner declared, “The optometrist is a primary care provider and the optometrist has a role in the diagnosis and treatment of ocular pathology.” Three decisions were taken in this conference: 1. Optometry must abandon its self-image as a drugless profession. 2. Optometrists must take a tip from medicine and continuously update their education to elevate the profession, in the public’s eye, to that of a primary care provider. Call now 888-357-3226 (Toll Free) info@medicalbillersandcoders.com
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