news

February 28, 2024

Link between eye examinations and fall prevention in older adults

Comprehensive eye examinations are among the chief ways of preventing potentially deadly falls in adults 65 years and older, according to the American Public Health Association’s (APHA’s) newly released policy statement.

February 7, 2024

Health system optometrists strike for recognition, fair labor practices

Doctors of optometry employed by the University of California system went on strike Feb. 6-7, after a year of efforts to secure an agreement to invest in the care they provide.

February 4, 2024

Capitol Hill inquiries into plan abuses are expanding

Leaders of a second powerful congressional committee launched an inquiry into reports provided by doctors of optometry, dentists and patient advocates of abusive marketplace power and tactics used by specialty plans covering vision and dental benefits.

January 18, 2024

'Not-a-doctor' bills are back: Affiliates, AOA preparing for fresh attacks on optometry

Last year, affiliates across the country defeated attempts to turn the clock back on optometry’s groundbreaking progress. This year brings two new challenges, as legislation is introduced in Florida—again—and Tennessee this month. Not that the AOA or optometry’s advocates in those states are surprised; as optometry advances, they’re prepared to resist any legislation that isn’t in the best interests of doctors of optometry and patients.

November 2, 2023

No letting up on Eyeglass Rule advocacy

In a recent one-on-one conversation with Federal Trade Commission staff, the AOA again urges the agency to reconsider a proposal requiring patients to sign forms attesting that they have received copies of their eyeglass prescriptions.

October 26, 2023

Affiliates, AOA share forward-thinking strategies for optometry’s advocates

AOA State Government Relations Center (SGRC) Regional Advocacy Meetings convened affiliate leaders and advocates from across the nation to collaborate and build formidable grassroots strategies for continued legislative success.

January 26, 2023

FTC announces proposed ban on noncompete clauses

January 1, 2022

New laws in effect for 2022 -per the COA's update:

All health care providers are required to send medication prescriptions to the pharmacy electronically as of January 1, 2022.
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.
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).
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).
An optometrist may not sell medication directly to patients [B&P 3041 (h)].
Optometrists must post a sign in the office letting patients know where to file a complaint.