Optometrists: scope of practice: delegation of services agreement.

The Optometry Practice Act provides for the licensure and regulation of the practice of optometry by the State Board of Optometry in the Department of Consumer Affairs. Existing law provides that the practice of optometry includes various functions relating to the visual system, including performing certain functions under the direction of, or after consultation with, an ophthalmologist. A violation of the act is a misdemeanor. This bill would authorize an optometrist to provide services set forth in a delegation of services agreement, as defined, between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist. Because the bill would expand the scope of practice of optometry, this bill would revise the definition of a crime, thereby imposing a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.