There is an undeniable disparity in eye care services in Virginia, with twice as many optometrists as ophthalmologists in the state. By allowing certified optometrists to expand their scope of practice, we can address this disparity and improve access to essential eye care services for residents across Virginia.

As a practicing optometrist in an urban area with a high concentration of ophthalmologists, I see firsthand the challenges my patients face in accessing timely care. Many of them have to wait weeks, or even months, before they can be seen by a specialist. This is unacceptable and only exacerbates the already limited access to eye care services in underserved and rural areas of Virginia.

It is clear that the greatest threat to healthcare is not negligence, but rather accessibility. By expanding the scope of practice for certified optometrists, we can work towards ensuring that all residents of Virginia have access to the eye care services they need and deserve. Let's work together to remove these barriers and improve the health and well-being of all Virginians.