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Legislature debates optometry scope change as proponents cite rural access and opponents warn of patient‑safety risks
Summary
House Bill 218 would allow certified optometrists to perform certain in‑office anterior‑segment procedures. Proponents emphasized rural access and existing training; ophthalmologists and medical groups warned about training differences and potential complications. The committee heard extensive testimony and technical Q&A; no vote was taken.
Representative Ed Buttry opened the hearing on House Bill 218, which would permit optometrists who meet board‑set certification requirements to perform specified in‑office anterior‑segment procedures and biopsies of eyelid lesions.
"This bill modernizes the practice of optometry in Montana which hasn't been addressed for 25 years," Rep. Buttry said, adding the bill excludes penetrating intraocular surgery, intravitreal injections and refractive procedures such as LASIK.
Supporters — including practicing optometrists from rural communities and the Montana Optometric Association — argued the change would improve timely access to eye care for patients who now travel long distances and wait months for appointments. Dr. Ron Benner, an…
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