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Bill

SB 351

Board of Optometry rule relating to oral pharmaceutical certificates

2026 Regular Session

SB 351 updates West Virginia optometry regulations governing oral pharmaceutical prescribing authority and certification requirements for licensed optometrists.

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Bill Summary · SB 351

Legislative bill overview

SB 351 modifies West Virginia's Board of Optometry regulations regarding oral pharmaceutical certificates for optometrists. The bill adjusts the rules governing which medications optometrists may prescribe orally and the conditions under which they can administer these certificates. This represents a regulatory update to scope-of-practice standards for eye care professionals in the state.

Why is this important

Optometrists are primary eye care providers for many West Virginians, particularly in rural areas with limited ophthalmologist access. Changes to what medications they can prescribe affect patient access to treatment for eye conditions and determine whether patients must visit additional specialists for pharmaceutical care. The regulatory framework directly impacts healthcare delivery efficiency and costs for eye disease management.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice debate: Ophthalmologists may oppose expanded optometrist prescribing authority as a competitive or patient safety concern
  • Specific medications unclear: Without bill text details, it's uncertain whether changes expand or restrict the oral medication list, which affects both optometrist practice and patient access
  • Training and oversight standards: Questions about whether existing certification requirements and continuing education adequately prepare optometrists for expanded pharmaceutical responsibilities

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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