The Kansas State Board of Examiners in Optometry approved reciprocity or license transfers for a group of optometrists at its meeting.

The board voted to approve reciprocity applications for the following applicants who described prior practice experience in other states: Dr. Kimberly Dittmore (previously practicing in Oregon), Dr. Kathleen Wilmas (practicing in Missouri, seeking Kansas licensure to open practice opportunities), Dr. Everson (pediatrics/vision therapy background, signing with a private practice in Overland Park), Dr. Melissa Kramer (Kansas City practitioner seeking Kansas licensure to broaden opportunities) and Dr. Ali Moody (recently with AEG in Arizona, seeking Kansas reciprocity).

Applicants described their clinical backgrounds and practice plans to the board. For example, Dr. Dittmore said she has practiced in Oregon since 2007 and treats a mix of geriatric and routine eye conditions; Dr. Everson described a residency and work at St. Louis Children’s Hospital and said she had signed with a private practice in Overland Park. Dr. Moody confirmed continuing education compliance (48 CE hours) required for reciprocity.

Board members made individual motions for each application and took unanimous aye votes to approve the reciprocity applications. The approvals are contingent on applicants meeting the board’s licensure and continuing education requirements as stated in their applications and board policy. The meeting record does not show any board action to alter CE or reciprocity standards.

The board chair congratulated each new licensee as the approvals were announced. The approvals were routine licensure actions under the board’s authority and did not involve changes in statute or regulation.