Utah House Bill HB0160

Utah 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/23
• Refer: 1/23/23
• Report Pass: 3/1/23
• Failed: 3/3/23

Caption

Contact Lens Purchase Amendments

Impact

The enactment of HB0160 would amend existing laws related to contact lens prescriptions in Utah, particularly Section 58-16a-306 of the Utah Code. It is expected to promote transparency and patient engagement in the decision-making process regarding their eye care. By requiring physicians and optometrists to communicate options and document patient preferences, the bill seeks to empower consumers and ensure they receive suitable and desired products without being limited by a particular brand or manufacturer chosen by their provider.

Summary

House Bill 0160, known as the Contact Lens Purchase Amendments, introduces specific requirements for optometrists and physicians who prescribe contact lenses. The bill mandates that these practitioners inform patients about options for different brands or manufacturers of contact lenses and document any preferences. This aims to enhance patient awareness and choice when it comes to their contact lens prescriptions. The bill stipulates that practitioners must also provide a written copy of the prescription and any requested brand or manufacturer, provided it is deemed medically appropriate.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for increasing patient rights and choices, there may be points of contention regarding the administrative burden placed on healthcare providers. Critics may argue that the additional documentation requirements could overwhelm practitioners, particularly in busy practice settings. Furthermore, questions about the long-term impacts on pricing and competition among contact lens brands could arise, depending on how these new regulations are implemented and enforced.