The bill H. 4103 seeks to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws regarding optometry by introducing a new section, 40-37-35, which allows the State Board of Examiners in Optometry to issue restricted volunteer licenses to out-of-state optometrists who meet specific criteria, such as holding a valid license in good standing and having at least five years of clinical practice. These volunteer optometrists will be permitted to treat only uninsured patients without receiving any remuneration. The bill also revises various sections related to board membership requirements, definitions of optometry practice, and the powers and duties of the board, aiming to enhance the regulatory framework for optometry in South Carolina while expanding care opportunities for underserved populations.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the responsibilities of optometrists, including the requirement to refer patients to medical specialists when necessary, particularly in glaucoma management, and prohibits them from performing invasive surgeries and laser procedures. It establishes that optometrists must maintain malpractice insurance and adhere to the same standard of care as physicians. The bill also allows optometrists to provide vision care services in schools with administrative approval and includes provisions for liability protections for healthcare providers offering free services. It repeals Section 40-37-300 and 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