When it comes to treating glaucoma and other essential eye care, Massachusetts is behind the times

Every state except Massachusetts, as well as the federal Veteran’s Administration (VA) system and military branches, authorizes optometrists to directly treat a patient’s glaucoma. In addition, optometrists have the authority to prescribe a limited number of oral pharmaceutical medications for the treatment of issues such as shingles and cellulitis in 48 states, along with the District of Columbia, the federal VA system and military branches.

A simple legislative remedy is ready for action on Beacon Hill

Passage of “An Act Relative to the Modernization of the Practice of Optometry”, HB 1973 (Rep. Haddad) / SB1151 (Sen. Flanagan) /HB 1983 (Rep. Jones) will ensure that the practice of optometry in Massachusetts meets the United States’ standard of care and that Massachusetts residents who suffer from glaucoma will have expanded access to direct treatment of glaucoma.

Legislative inaction harms patients

Early diagnosis and managed treatment of glaucoma offers patients protection against the risk of vision loss or blindness. Patients in Massachusetts who are diagnosed with glaucoma during a visit to an optometrist cannot receive immediate treatment under existing state law.  Greater access to timely, safe and cost competitive glaucoma care requires prompt legislative action.

Sign this petition to send your state legislators the message - it's time for Massachusetts to catch up!