OD Scope Expansion

On Wedensday January 12, 2011 LB316 was introduced in the Nebraska Legislature. Senator Lavon Heidemann and Senator Norm Wallman introduced LB 316 on behalf of the Nebraska Optometric Association. LB 316 proposed changes would:

1. Allow laser eye surgery to the anterior segment of the eye

2. Allow scalpel surgery and injections to the eyelids and adnexa

3. Allow prescribing any oral pharmaceutical agent rational to diagnosing or treating conditions of the eye, adnexa or visual system

4. Allow the treatment of infantile glaucoma, which is currently specifically prohibited

5. Allow a new level of certification for optometrists to perform surgical procedures.  The certification requirements would be established by the Board of Optometry (not the Board of Medicine and Surgery).

6. Allow training programs to take place in Nebraska without regard to existing or future scope of practice laws.

In addition to renewing your membership in NAEPS, we hope you will consider a generous contribution to Surgical Scope Fund as well as our state and national political action committees.  (NAEPS PAC and OPHTHPAC respectively.)  Unlike PAC money, the Surgical Scope Fund is used to pay for media purchases (advertising), public education and lobbying through grants to state ophthalmology societies.  Because no money goes directly to politicians, contributions are entirely CONFIDENTIAL and CORPORATE (practice) funds may be used. (PAC contributions, however, are public knowledge and only personal, after tax funds may be given.)  Please contribute today!  Surgical Scope Fund contributions may also be given online at:  www.aao.org/ssf Contact Jina Ragland, NAEPS Executive Director at 402-474-4472 if you have

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