The bill amends K.S.A. 65-1501 to redefine the practice of optometry in Kansas by removing the term "adnexae" and deleting references to "topical" and oral pharmaceutical drugs. It expands the scope of optometry to include the use of medical devices, the prescribing and administering of pharmaceutical drugs through all routes except intraocular injections, and the performance of additional procedures based on the optometrist's education and training. The bill also clarifies that optometrists can provide pre-operative and post-operative care for certain surgical procedures while prohibiting others, such as retinal surgery and general anesthesia.

Additionally, the bill outlines licensure qualifications, including the requirement for professional liability insurance and reciprocal licensure processes, and mandates continuing education focused on ocular pharmacology for license renewal. It grants the optometry board authority to administer oaths, take testimony, issue subpoenas, and compel witness attendance, with provisions for compensation for non-state witnesses. The bill also streamlines the legal framework by repealing several existing statutes related to the optometry board and emphasizes the importance of maintaining accurate public records of the board's activities. The act will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 65-1501, 65-1124, 65-2901, 65-5402, 65-1501a, 65-1505, 65-1509a, 65-1512, 65-1523, 74-1504, 65-1514, 74-1505