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Practitioner:

Optometrists

Doctors of optometry (O.D.s/optometrists) provide more than two-thirds of primary eye health care in the U.S. Optometrists are one of three types of eye care providers, alongside ophthalmologists (specialists who focus on more advanced surgical procedures) and opticians (who fit and/or fulfill corrective eye wear at the direction of either an optometrist or ophthalmologists). As health care providers, optometrists are trained to examine, diagnose, treat and manage eye disorders, diseases and injuries that manifest in the eye. In addition to providing eye and vision care, they may also play a key role in an individual’s general health and well-being. Optometrists can detect systemic diseases, provide vaccinations and prescribe medications.

The links to the right lead to maps showing a comparison of all states and territories for the following three policy areas:

1) authority to perform ophthalmic procedures
2) injectable authority
3) prescription of controlled substances

Choose a tab to explore different options. For more detailed information, please click on a state or territory.

Optometrists:
Prescription of controlled substances

Mobile users can use this dropdown of states if the map is too small.

LEGEND

  • Schedule II (Hydrocodone only)-V
  • Schedule III-V
  • Schedule IV-V or no authority
  • Information is not currently available

Optometrists can prescribe certain classifications of controlled substances depending on state law and/or rules and regulations. Schedule II controlled substances includes hydrocodone only. The Drug Enforcement Administration determines the classifications of controlled substances.

Policy areas for Optometrists

Prescription of controlled substances

Injectable Authority

Authority to perform ophthalmic procedures


Practitioner Scope of Practice

  • Behavioral Health Providers
  • Nurse Practitioners
  • Optometrists
  • Oral Health Providers
  • Pharmacists
  • Physician Assistants

Optometrists Overview

Learn More About Optometrists

For More Information

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Acknowledgement and Disclaimer: This project is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under UD3OA22893, National Organizations for State and Local Officials. This information or content and conclusions are those of the author and should not be construed as the official position or policy of, nor should any endorsements be inferred by HRSA, HHS or the U.S. government.

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