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Bill

LC 1814

Revising the practice of optometry to include certain laser procedures and in-office surgical procedures

2025 Regular Session

Montana bill would allow optometrists to perform laser and in-office surgical procedures currently limited to ophthalmologists, expanding eye care access but raising training and safety questions.

(LC) Draft Delivered to Requester
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Bill Summary · LC 1814

Legislative bill overview

Bill LC 1814 would expand the scope of optometry practice in Montana to permit optometrists to perform certain laser procedures and in-office surgical procedures that are currently restricted to ophthalmologists. The bill is still in draft form and has not yet been formally introduced to the legislature as of the provided information.

Why is this important

This change would directly affect healthcare access and cost in Montana by potentially allowing optometrists to perform procedures like laser eye surgery and minor surgical interventions, which could expand treatment availability in underserved areas and potentially reduce patient costs. It also represents a significant professional boundary shift between optometrists and ophthalmologists, two eye care specialties with different training requirements.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice and patient safety: Ophthalmologists complete 4 additional years of surgical training beyond optometry; opponents may argue surgical procedures require this additional expertise, while proponents would argue specific procedures can be safely performed with appropriate additional training
  • Professional turf concerns: Ophthalmologists may oppose the expansion as a competitive threat, while optometrists argue it improves their ability to serve patients without unnecessary referrals
  • Specificity of "certain procedures": The bill's language about which laser and surgical procedures qualify remains unclear in draft form, creating uncertainty about the actual scope of expanded authority and regulatory oversight needed

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

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