Optometrists nationwide are fighting to remove statutory barriers that prevent them from using therapeutic lasers. This year it is playing out in Idaho.

Many states, including our neighbor Wyoming, allow optometrists to use therapeutic lasers to treat patients safely. Optometrists in those states have performed more than 100,000 laser procedures since 1998. The procedures in Senate Bill 1052 are performed in-office; no operating room, no scrubs, no general anesthesia.

Optometrists are trained in diagnosing and treating ocular disease and receive hands-on clinical experience, including laser and minor surgical procedures. They graduate from an accredited college of optometry and must pass a national board examination to prove competency and skill.

Optometrists often represent the only eye care providers in rural Idaho. Allowing optometrists to perform in-office laser procedures will create a free market giving Idahoans another safe option to receive eye care. Patients in smaller communities can avoid expensive and time-consuming travel to larger cities.

Idahoans can rest assured that optometrists are highly educated, skilled and licensed professionals. With more optometrists geographically accessible, expanding optometry’s scope of practice makes good sense.

Urge your legislator to support Senate Bill 1052.

DR. BRIAN MILLER

Rathdrum