The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 148.56, subdivision 1, to modify the limitations on optometrists regarding the prescribing and administering of drugs. It clarifies that optometrists can prescribe or administer legend drugs to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of eye-related conditions, as long as these practices are in accordance with the curricula of accredited optometry schools and the regulations set by the Board of Optometry. The bill also specifies that optometrists are allowed to administer drugs via sub-Tenon, retrobulbar, or intravitreal injection, which expands their capabilities in treating patients.

Additionally, the bill introduces new restrictions on the administration of certain drugs. It removes the previous limitations on administering legend drugs intravenously, intramuscularly, or by injection, except for anaphylaxis treatment, and allows for the prescription of oral steroids for up to 14 days without physician consultation. The previous restrictions on prescribing Schedule II and III oral legend drugs and oral antivirals for more than ten days have been modified, while the limitation on oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitors has been removed entirely. These changes aim to enhance the scope of practice for optometrists while ensuring patient safety through appropriate guidelines.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 148.56