§ 58-16a-601. Scope of practice. (Effective 5/13/2014)

(1) An optometrist may:

(a) provide optometric services not specifically prohibited under this chapter or division rules if the services are within the optometrist's training, skills, and scope of competence; and

(b) prescribe or administer pharmaceutical agents for the eye and its adnexa, including oral agents, subject to the following conditions:

(i) an optometrist may prescribe oral antibiotics for only eyelid related ocular conditions or diseases, and other ocular conditions or diseases specified by division rule; and

(ii) an optometrist may administer or prescribe a hydrocodone combination drug, or a Schedule III controlled substance, as defined in Section 58-37-4, only if:

(A) the substance is administered or prescribed for pain of the eye or adnexa;

(B) the substance is administered orally or topically or is prescribed for oral or topical use;

(C) the amount of the substance administered or prescribed does not exceed a 72-hour quantity; and

(D) if the substance is prescribed, the prescription does not include refills.

(2) An optometrist may not:

(a) perform surgery, including laser surgery; or

(b) prescribe or administer a Schedule II controlled substance, as defined in Section 58-37-4, except for a hydrocodone combination drug, if so scheduled and prescribed or administered in accordance with Subsection (1)(b).

(3) For purposes of Sections 31A-22-617 and 31A-22-618, an optometrist is a health care provider.

Amended by Chapter 305, 2014 General Session