Expanded scope of practice--Prerequisites

Before an optometrist may perform any one or more of the procedures set forth in subdivision 36-7-1 (9), the optometrist must provide to the board, at the time and in the manner directed by the board, verifiable evidence that:

(1) The optometrist:

(a) Received a passing score on the laser examination and on the surgical procedures examination, offered by the National Board of Examiners in Optometry; or

(b) Graduated, prior to July 1, 2024, from an optometric school or college approved by the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education or from an optometric school or college approved by the board;

(2) The optometrist satisfactorily completed a course that:

(a) Is at least thirty-two hours in duration;

(b) Is approved by the board;

(c) Includes content related to each procedure set forth in subdivision 36-7-1 (9); and

(d) Is proctored by an ophthalmologist or is proctored by an optometrist who is authorized to perform all of the procedures set forth in subdivision 36-7-1 (9) by the optometric licensing board of a state in which a qualified optometrist may perform all of the procedures; and

(3) The optometrist has demonstrated competency in accordance with the performance criteria set forth in § 36-7-1.5 .

The board shall review the evidence required by this section and upon verification of an optometrist's compliance with the requirements, authorize the optometrist to perform one or more of the procedures set forth in subdivision 36-7-1 (9). The board shall develop and implement a system for documenting any actions under this section.

Source: SL 2024, ch 155, § 2.