Expansion of optometric scope of practice does not improve geographical access or decrease driving time for laser procedures, according to a study published in JAMA Ophthalmology.
Several states have expanded optometrists’ scope of practice, allowing them to perform laser procedures. The main reason was to increase access to care by reducing distance and driving time.
The study used Medicare data from 2016 to 2020 of patients accessing first visits or laser eye care from optometrists or ophthalmologists in Oklahoma, Kentucky, Louisiana, Arkansas and Missouri. Laser procedures included