Tennessee has enacted new legislation expanding the scope of optometric practice, with a focus on laser procedures and updated clinical authority. On April 14, Gov. Bill Lee signed HB 1952 / SB 2076 into law, changing how optometrists can deliver care in the state.
With the update, Tennessee becomes the 16th state to authorize certain in-office ophthalmic laser procedures for optometrists. The law also revises statutory definitions and clarifies clinical standards.
Key Provisions
The legislation introduces several updates to optometric scope in Tennessee, including:
- Laser procedures. Optometrists may perform certain in-office laser procedures for the diagnosis and treatment of anterior eye conditions.
- Additional limited laser authority. With additional certification, optometrists can perform peripheral iridotomy, selective laser trabeculoplasty, and YAG capsulotomy.
- Expanded anesthesia use. The law expands use of local anesthesia in limited treatment settings.
- Updated scope definitions. Statutory language now includes treatment of the eye, eyelids, and adnexa.
- Aesthetic injections. Optometrists are permitted to perform certain injections, including botulinum toxin, or Botox, for both cosmetic and therapeutic purposes.
- Standard of care. Optometrists are held to the same standard of care as other physicians performing similar services.
Industry Response
Amanda Dellinger, OD, legislative committee co-chair of the Tennessee Association of Optometric Physicians, called this a landmark victory for optometrists and patients. “This law modernizes our state’s optometric scope to reflect the education and clinical training doctors of optometry receive today, positioning Tennessee as a leader in modern, patient-centered eye care and helping to ensure more patients can get the care they need, when and where they need it.”
Jacquie M. Bowen, OD, president of the American Optometric Association, added that the AOA stands alongside its affiliates who are working to expand the scope of practice throughout the country. “This is about more than one state—it’s part of a growing, nationwide movement to ensure patients have access to the full scope of care doctors of optometry are trained to provide.”