Texas House Bill HB1798

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the practice of therapeutic optometry; requiring an occupational certificate to perform certain surgical procedures.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1798 will significantly alter the current regulations related to therapeutic optometry. Specifically, it mandates that therapeutic optometrists must complete an instructional clinical review course and pass an examination conducted by the Texas Optometry Board to obtain certification for performing certain surgical procedures. By establishing these requirements, the bill seeks to ensure that optometrists are adequately trained for the complexities involved in surgical interventions, which can include procedures traditionally left to ophthalmologists.

Summary

House Bill 1798 aims to amend the regulations surrounding the practice of therapeutic optometry in Texas by requiring optometrists to obtain an occupational certificate for performing specific surgical procedures. The bill redefines the scope of practice for therapeutic optometrists, allowing them to provide preoperative and postoperative care while limiting the types of surgeries they can perform without the required certification. This legislative change reflects a growing trend in regulatory frameworks that aim to balance scope of practice with patient safety.

Contention

While supporters of the bill argue that it will enhance patient safety and ensure higher standards of care, criticisms have arisen regarding the increased administrative burden on practitioners and potential barriers to care for patients needing surgical intervention. Concerns have been voiced that stricter regulations may limit the accessibility of eye care services, particularly in underserved areas where optometrists may be the only available providers. The debate centers on finding the right balance between expanding the scope of practice for therapeutic optometrists and maintaining patient safety standards.