§ 58-16a-601 — Scope of practice.

(1) An optometrist may:

(1)(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
(1)(b) prescribe or administer pharmaceutical agents for the eye and its adnexa, including oral agents, subject to the following conditions:
(1)(b)(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
(1)(b)(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:

(1)(b)(ii)(A) the substance is administered or prescribed for pain of the eye or adnexa;
(1)(b)(ii)(B) the substance is administered orally or topically or is prescribed for oral or topical use;
(1)(b)(ii)(C) the amount of the substance administered or prescribed does not exceed a 72-hour quantity; and
(1)(b)(ii)(D) if the substance is prescribed, the prescription does not include refills.
(2) An optometrist may not:

(2)(a) perform surgery, including laser surgery; or
(2)(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-22-618 and 31A-45-303, an optometrist is a health care provider.

Legislative History

Amended by Chapter 292, 2017 General Session