As an optometrists in Utah I do not have the opportunity to help my patient receive YAG capsulotomies for a post cataract condition that occurs up to 50 percent of the time. I cannot offer a superior treatment for my glaucoma patients because I can’t perform a Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty. I was trained and required to be proficient in these procedures in order to graduate from optometry school. In addition, my own state’s Department of Professional License Review found allowing optometrist to perform these procedures would benefit Utahs residents. Multiple studies have found optometrists are safe and proficient in performing these procedures. Why then are optometrists not permitted to perform these procedures in every state of the US? Protectionism. Ophthalmology controls this market are simply doesn’t want to give it up. They will use “safety” as a cudgel to beat down any argument, study, state recommendation to protect their turf. I ask you to put the citizens of Virginia first. Optometrists have done all the hard work and the democratic process has given them the opportunity to help their patients. Don’t allow regulatory red tape to stop the democratic process from taking affect.

Thank you for your consideration. 

Dr. Ross J. Chatwin