This bill amends the practice of optometry in Montana to allow licensed optometrists to perform certain in-office surgical procedures and laser surgical procedures, specifically limited to the anterior segment of the eye and adnexa. The amendments to Section 37-10-101 include the insertion of "ocular" anomalies in the definition of optometry and the allowance for optometrists to perform these surgical procedures, provided they are certified by the board. The bill also clarifies that optometrists are not permitted to conduct penetrating intraocular surgery, intravitreal injections, or refractive surgery.

Additionally, Section 37-10-302 is amended to establish the qualifications for certification of licensed optometrists to perform laser surgical procedures. The board is tasked with certifying optometrists who have completed the necessary training from an accredited institution, ensuring they are equipped to use lasers for medically recognized treatments of the eye. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 37-10-101, 37-10-302
HB0218_1(1): 37-10-101, 37-10-302
HB0218_1(2): 37-10-101, 37-10-302
HB0218_1(3): 37-10-101, 37-10-302
HB0218_1(4): 37-10-101, 37-10-302
HB0218_1(5): 37-10-101, 37-10-302
HB0218_1(6): 37-10-101, 37-10-302
HB0218_1(7): 37-10-101, 37-10-302
HB0218_1: 37-10-101, 37-10-302
HB0218_X(1): 37-10-101, 37-10-302
HB0218_X(2): 37-10-101, 37-10-302
HB0218_X(3): 37-10-101, 37-10-302
HB0218_X(4): 37-10-101, 37-10-302
HB0218_X(5): 37-10-101, 37-10-302
HB0218_X: 37-10-101, 37-10-302