73-19-1 - Practice of optometry defined.
§ 73-19-1. Practice of optometry defined.
(1) The practice of optometry is defined to be the application of optical principles, through technical methods and devices in the examination of human eyes for the purpose of ascertaining departures from the normal, measuring their functional powers and adapting or prescribing optical accessories, including spectacles, contact lenses and low-vision devices, for the aid thereof, including, but not limited to, the use of computerized or automated refracting devices, lenses and prisms, vision therapy and low-vision rehabilitation therapy. The practice of optometry shall include the prescribing and use of therapeutic pharmaceutical agents by optometrists certified under Sections 73-19-153 through 73-19-165. The practice of optometry shall not include the performing of any invasive surgery including laser surgery, but shall not preclude the removal of superficial foreign bodies from the eye or other noninvasive procedures. Nothing in this section or any other provision of law shall be construed to prohibit optometrists who have been certified under Sections 73-19-153 through 73-19-165 from providing postophthalmic surgical or clinical care and management with the advice and consultation of the operating or treating physician.
(2) Nothing in Laws, 2005, Chapter 404, shall be construed or interpreted to allow any optometrist to treat systemic diseases and/or conditions.
Sources: Codes, Hemingway's 1921 Supp. § 6124a; 1930, § 5652; 1942, § 8832; Laws, 1920, ch. 217; reenacted, 1983, ch. 438, § 1; reenacted, 1991, ch. 303, § 1; Laws, 1994, ch. 573, § 10; Laws, 2005, ch. 404, § 1, eff from and after July 1, 2005.