Virginia Regulatory Town Hall
Agency
Department of Health Professions
 
Board
Board of Optometry
 
chapter
Regulations of the Virginia Board of Optometry [18 VAC 105 ‑ 20]
Action Regulations for laser surgery certifications
Stage Proposed
Comment Period Ended on 10/25/2024
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10/25/24  8:46 pm
Commenter: Gabrielle Anderson

Strongly support OD laser rights
 

As a 4th year student from the Kentucky College of Optometry, we had over a year in training in specifically how to do SLT, LPI, and YAG procedures. As our tests to pass the class we went through the same examination that current ODs go through to get certified to do lasers who are not currently in school. I have seen how optometrists having laser rights in Kentucky has expanded access to care for patients who otherwise would have not been able to travel due to distance, cost, etc.  to the nearest ophthalmologist all of the optometrists who I have seen practice with lasers are very cautious. I believe optometrists having laser rights in Virginia will be beneficial to the patients the most. With the same level of certifications that the state of Kentucky requires is a fair requirement for the state of Virginia doctors to have to do. 

CommentID: 228544