news
January 26, 2023
FTC announces proposed ban on noncompete clauses
January 5, 2023
Gaining access: A win for veterans and doctors of optometry
The Department of Veterans Affairs lifts language that had restricted care from doctors of optometry, opening up access to veterans around the country. Persistent advocacy by AOA, AFOS, the Mississippi Optometric Association and other stakeholders results in greater care delivery.
January 4, 2023
Interprofessional communication for diabetic eye care critical: What you should know
The AOA and other eye care organizations collaborated with the American Diabetes Association to develop an interprofessional communication protocol intended to improve eye health outcomes.
November 10, 2022
7 takeaways from the 2023 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule
October 27, 2022
AOA issues consumer health alert for online vision tests
The public-facing alert encourages consumers to ask discerning questions about online vision tests before entrusting their eye health care to a direct-to-consumer service.
October 19, 2022
Federal student loan forgiveness latest: Application now available
As the Department of Education releases an official application for loan forgiveness, optometry’s advocates continue to emphasize that eligibility for debt relief programs should not exclude optometry and greater options should be available for debt forgiveness programs.
October 10, 2022
5 steps to bolster your office’s cybersecurity
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, an opportunity to assess your cybersecurity protocols and identify areas for improvement.
May 19, 2022
2022 Contact Lens Controversies
The contact lens industry is constantly evolving and 2022 is no different. With new management options available to practitioners, it is worth discussing whether to adopt these changes or continue with what is known to be effective.
January 1, 2022
New laws in effect for 2022 -per the COA's update:
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All health care providers are required to send medication prescriptions to the pharmacy electronically as of January 1, 2022.
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The maximum fine for violating the laws for out-of-state ophthalmic lens sellers increases next year from $2,500 to $35,000 (AB 1534). Click here to complain to the state about illegal contact lens sales. Also, share your story here.
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An optometrist may not knowingly provide optometric services to any patient who scheduled their appointment through any individual, corporation, or firm engaged in the business of filling prescriptions that is not properly registered with the State Board of Optometry (AB 1534).
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An optometrist may not knowingly lease space from any individual, corporation, or firm engaged in the business of filling prescriptions that is not properly registered with the State Board of Optometry (AB 1534).
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An optometrist may not sell medication directly to patients [B&P 3041 (h)].
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Optometrists must post a sign in the office letting patients know where to file a complaint.