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Pushback grows as committee weighs allowing optometrists to perform limited laser eye procedures
Summary
Supporters say HB 349 would expand access to three limited laser procedures for certified optometrists and help rural patients; ophthalmologists and the New Hampshire Medical Society warned the proposal lowers surgical standards and poses patient-safety and statutory oversight problems.
House Bill 349 would let certified optometrists perform three specified ophthalmic laser procedures — capsulotomy, trabeculoplasty and peripheral iridotomy — after meeting board training and proctoring requirements. Proponents said the change reflects modern optometry training, would shorten wait times in underserved areas and give patients more choice.
Supporters included practicing optometrists and educators who described didactic and simulated training in optometry schools and available postgraduate courses, and who said board-set proctoring and reporting requirements would ensure competency. Dr. Lisonbee Loranger, an optometrist who trained in the procedures, told…
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