The bill seeks to enhance the practice of optometry in Washington State by allowing optometrists to perform advanced procedures, such as managing lid lesions, administering injections, and conducting eyelid surgery, while excluding laser procedures. Key insertions include the requirement for optometrists to obtain a licensing endorsement through completion of designated postgraduate courses and passing a national examination. Additionally, the bill allows optometrists to order diagnostic tests, dispense medication samples, and prescribes specific educational requirements for the use of topical and oral medications, with limitations on prescribing controlled substances and a mandate for physician consultation for extended prescriptions.

Moreover, the legislation establishes guidelines for the optometry board regarding the prescription and administration of drugs, including the requirement for optometrists with advanced procedure endorsements to report outcomes and any complications to the board annually. The bill clarifies the definition of diagnostic and therapeutic pharmaceutical agents, explicitly excluding Schedule I and Schedule II drugs, except for hydrocodone combination products. It also emphasizes the board's role in maintaining public safety through the development of licensure examinations and the analysis of reported outcomes, with a reporting requirement set to expire on December 31, 2028.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 18.53.010, 18.54.050, 18.54.070
Substitute Bill: 18.53.010, 18.54.050, 18.54.070
Bill as Passed Legislature: 18.53.010, 18.54.050, 18.54.070
Session Law: 18.53.010, 18.54.050, 18.54.070