Optometrists in Montana possess extensive education and training, yet outdated state laws hinder them from fully utilizing their skills to assist those in need. Just like all areas of medical care, eye health care has progressed significantly. It is crucial for Montana to update these regulations, ensuring that residents receive the prompt and high-quality eye care they require and deserve, similar to what is available in neighboring states such as Wyoming and South Dakota.
Optometrists frequently serve as the initial point of contact for addressing patients' vision and eye health needs. However, current state regulations limit their ability to carry out advanced in-office procedures for which they have received comprehensive training. This encompasses treatments that optometrists in other states have been safely administering for many years, including laser therapies for glaucoma and minor follow-up procedures after cataract surgery.
By passing the Optometry Bill 2025, Montana will align its laws with a growing number of states that recognize the full scope of optometrists’ education and training and allow them to conduct these in-office procedures. This update will make modern, patient-centered eye care more accessible while ensuring it remains incredibly safe and effective.
In communities like Kalispell, where I have been practicing for 21 years at a clinic that has been serving the public for over a century, updating our antiquated laws could greatly enhance the care we provide to patients.
The data is unmistakable: In 12 states, such as Wyoming, South Dakota, and Colorado, optometrists are conducting these procedures safely. Statistics from these regions indicate that over 146,000 laser procedures have been carried out without unexpected issues. Patients have confidence in optometrists, with 94% of Americans considering them trustworthy sources for eye health information.
Optometrists in Montana possess the necessary education, certification, and hands-on experience to carry out these procedures safely. They undergo almost 10,000 hours of training, handle thousands of patient cases prior to working independently, and successfully complete challenging national board examinations.
Updating Montana's optometry regulations will significantly benefit patients.
Improved Eye Care: By empowering optometrists with the skills and resources they are educated in, we guarantee that residents of Montana have access to prompt, top-notch eye care right in their local communities.
Improved Access: Rural and underserved communities often face long waits and costly travel to see specialists. Allowing optometrists to perform basic in-office procedures eliminates unnecessary referrals, saving patients time and money. Currently in Montana 190 optometrists provide care, compared to 60 ophthalmologists who provide care.
Enhanced Healthcare Framework: Revising our legislation brings Montana in line with adjacent states, draws skilled professionals to our areas, and tackles deficiencies in healthcare access.
For many years, optometrists in Montana have provided reliable, safe, and effective care. This new legislation allows them to uphold that tradition and ensures that our state stays a leader in accessible healthcare services.
The Optometry Bill 2025 aims to update obsolete regulations and focus on the needs of patients. We encourage legislators to back this sensible legislation, which guarantees that residents of Montana have access to the reliable eye care they require.
