The bill amends K.S.A. 65-1501 to redefine the practice of optometry in Kansas by removing the term "adnexae" and deleting specific references to "topical" and oral pharmaceutical drugs. It expands the procedures that optometrists are authorized to perform, including the removal of non-perforating foreign bodies from the eye and providing pre-operative and post-operative care for certain surgical procedures. Additionally, it establishes that optometrists must meet a standard of care for diagnosing and treating adult open-angle glaucoma that aligns with that of medical doctors. The bill also updates definitions related to optometry and outlines new licensure requirements, including professional liability insurance and continuing education focused on ocular pharmacology.

Moreover, the bill enhances the authority of the optometry board by allowing it to administer oaths, take testimony, issue subpoenas, and compel witness attendance and document production. It ensures that non-state witnesses appearing before the board receive fees and mileage akin to civil cases. The board is required to adopt regulations consistent with the optometry law and hold annual meetings for licensure examinations. The bill also repeals several existing statutes to streamline the governance of the optometry board and emphasizes the importance of maintaining public access to accurate records of the board's activities. The act will take effect upon publication in the statute book, marking a significant update to the regulation of optometry practices in Kansas.

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