Editors note: This is the fourth in a series of editorials on the future direction of optometry.

A few setbacks on optometrys legislative front dont detract from the fact that the profession has a solid legislative agenda that has focused on broadening scope of practice. That expands access to care and improves public health. These setbacks are temporary. The AOA, the lead organization in this defense, will regroup.

Where the profession does need to get its act together, though, is with regulatory issues, especially licensure endorsement and reciprocity. In todays mobile society, a profession that doesnt let you move freely is an anachronism.
Optometry school applications have dropped 25% in two years, and 35% fewer students are taking the Optometry Admission Test. Sure, managed care is to blame for much of this trend, but the lack of endorsement and reciprocity in the profession doesnt help.

You might think a dearth of applicants to schools is good news because youll have less competition. Think again. Youre more than a professional; youre part of a profession. And for you to succeed, a new generation must be ready to take up your retinoscope when youre ready to hang it up.

Endorsement is one issue into which many others feed. A realistic, national definition of scope of practice will obviate any argument that a doctor licensed in one state is not qualified to set up shop in another. Getting there wont be easy. Should that national definition include laser privileges, and oral and injectable drugs for all O.D.s? Thats one that you folks in the profession must work out amongst yourselves.

The AOA cannot do this alone. Indeed, the organization already supports endorsement and reciprocity. Other groupsmost notably the Association of Regulatory Boards of Optometry, an organization of the varied optometric boardsneed to step up here. And, of course, you, the voter and taxpayer, need to make your voice heard when your state officials go looking for optometry board members. Lets get people on those boards who embrace endorsement and reciprocity.

When it comes to setting a legislative agenda, public health issues are key. Nothing is more vital to public health than allowing doctors the freedom to provide patient care where its needed most. 

Next month: Your role in moving optometry forward.






Rich Kirkner, Editor-in-Chief