The bill S. 393 seeks to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws to improve the regulation and practice of optometry in the state. It introduces a new section, 40-37-35, which permits the State Board of Examiners in Optometry to issue restricted volunteer licenses to out-of-state optometrists who meet specific criteria, including holding a valid license in good standing, passing a board-prescribed examination, and having a minimum of five years of clinical experience. The bill also sets forth conditions for these volunteer optometrists, such as limitations on patient eligibility and remuneration, as well as requirements for supervision and case reviews with licensed optometrists.

In addition to establishing the volunteer license, the bill amends existing sections related to the South Carolina Board of Examiners in Optometry, revising membership requirements, definitions of optometry practice, and licensing standards. It clarifies the board's powers and duties to ensure that licensed optometrists meet educational and competency standards, updates regulations on the prescribing and administering of pharmaceutical agents, and repeals certain provisions regarding pharmacies and contact lens dispensing. The bill also mandates that optometrists refer patients to appropriate medical professionals when necessary, maintain malpractice insurance, and adhere to the same standard of care as physicians. It further allows optometrists to provide vision care services in schools and includes amendments for liability protections for healthcare providers offering free services. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
02/26/2025: 40-37-35, 40-37-10, 40-37-20, 40-37-30, 40-37-40, 40-37-245, 40-37-290, 40-37-310, 40-37-330, 40-37-420, 38-79-30, 44-30-310, 40-37-300
06/04/2025: 40-37-35, 40-37-10, 40-37-20, 40-37-30, 40-37-40, 40-37-245, 40-37-290, 40-37-310, 40-37-330, 40-37-420, 38-79-30, 44-30-310, 40-37-300
Latest Version: 40-37-35, 40-37-10, 40-37-20, 40-37-30, 40-37-40, 40-37-245, 40-37-290, 40-37-310, 40-37-330, 40-37-420, 38-79-30, 44-30-310, 40-37-300