Can optometrists do minor surgeries, laser surgeries, or intraocular surgeries?
In 49 of 50 states, it is illegal for optometrists to do any of the above. In Oklahoma, because of aggressive optometry lobbying, optometrists (OD) may perform some laser procedures. A recent OK bill will permit OK optometrists to become ophthalmologists with the Optometry Board deciding which surgeries can and cannot be done. This sets a dangerous precedent for a non-surgical specialty to form its own surgical board. In the VA, OK optometrists were performing laser procedures and minor surgeries on veterans. Ophthalmologists must stand together and fight this now and in the future. We should be involved at the state and federal level. Any new optometry surgical bill need to be fought aggressively at the state level. Please give money to your local ophthalmology society, OPHTHPAC, and the new Surgical Scope Fund. Sign-in on www.aao.org first, then load this page.
