Virginia Optometrists Gain Laser Surgery Authority After Certification

Virginia Board of Optometry Scope of Practice Expansion The 2022 Virginia General Assembly passed HB213 and SB375 expanding the scope of practice for TPA-Certified Optometrists to perform three laser surgical procedures, peripheral iridotomy, selective laser trabeculoplasty, and YAG capsulotomy, after receiving certification from the Virginia Board of Optometry. The Board will be convening a Regulatory Advisory Panel after July 1, 2022, to develop regulations for the certification process outlined in the Code of Virginia. No optometrist may perform these surgical laser procedures in Virginia until the final regulations become effective and a TPA-Certified Optometrist receives the required certification from the Virginia Board of Optometry. Resources to follow the Board's regulatory activities for the scope of practice expansion:

• Virginia Regulatory Town Hall - register to receive activity notification
• Information Posted on Virginia Regulatory Town Hall
• Meetings and Minutes Questions may be directed to optbd@dhp.virginia.gov Please put "Scope Expansion" in the subject line of email.