1164-S AMH CODY BLAC 37

SHB 1164 - H AMD 0054 WITHDRAWN 3-14-03

By Representative Cody

On page 4, line 12, after "authorize" strike all material beginning with "retinal" through "nor" on line 13

On page 4, after line 16, insert the following:

"(7) Nothing in this chapter may be construed to authorize optometrists to perform ophthalmic surgery. Ophthalmic surgery is defined as any invasive procedure in which human tissue is cut, ablated, or otherwise penetrated by incision, injection, laser, ultrasound, or other means, in order to: Treat human eye diseases; alter or correct refractive error; or alter or enhance cosmetic appearance. Nothing in this chapter limits an optometrist's ability to use diagnostic instruments utilizing laser or ultrasound technology. Ophthalmic surgery, as defined in this subsection, does not include removal of superficial ocular foreign bodies, epilation of misaligned eyelashes, placement of punctal or lacrimal plugs, diagnostic dilation and irrigation of the lacrimal system, orthokeratology, prescription and fitting of contact lenses with the purpose of altering refractive error, or other similar procedures within the scope of practice of optometry."

EFFECT: Deletes proposed prohibition on optometrists performing surgery. Defines "ophthalmic surgery" and prohibits optometrists from performing such surgery.