On May 1, West Virginia became the 14th state in the U.S. to allow certified optometrists in the state to perform capsulotomy, SLT, LPI and various surgical procedures. This is a significant piece of legislation expands optometrists’ scope of practice to the full extent of their education and training. This is a victory for optometrists and their patients, particularly those in rural and underserved areas.
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Many residents in these regions often face long travel times and wait periods to receive essential eye care services. When this law goes into effect on July 9, optometrists will be able to address the needs of their communities more effectively, ultimately improving their patients’ health outcomes.
“This is a monumental step forward for health care in West Virginia,” said Chad Robinson, executive director of West Virginia Association of Optometric Physicians (WVAOP) in a press release. “SB 565 ensures that our highly trained optometrists can practice to the full extent of their education, training, and licensure, bringing accessible care to West Virginians where they are.”
Laura Suppa, OD, FAAO, President of the WVAOP Board of Directors, is happy with the organization’s role in making this legislative change a reality. “This legislation will allow optometrists to deliver essential care without patients having to travel long distances of wait weeks for an appointment,” Dr. Suppa said. “It’s a win for public health and for West Virginia families.”
The successful passage of this bill is the result of extensive advocacy efforts by the WVAOP and its dedicated members, who have worked to promote the importance of expanding optometric practice in the state. “This moment belongs to every WVAOP member who showed up, told their story, and stood firm in our shared commitment to patient-centered care,” Robinson said.
As optometrists across the state prepare to provide enhanced services, the focus remains on improving access to eye care for all West Virginians.
