Estimated read time: 3-4 minutes
This story is a paid political advertisement by Utah Optometric Association.
To enhance eye care accessibility in Utah, especially in rural areas, a significant legislative proposal has been introduced by Utah State Senator Curt Bramble of Provo. This proposal allows optometrists to perform two specific laser procedures: YAG-capsulotomy and Selective Laser Trabeculectomy (SLT).
These procedures, fundamental to eye health, could soon be more accessible to Utahns, thanks to a comprehensive study by the Utah Office of Professional Licensure Review. The study underscores the safety and necessity of these procedures when performed by optometrists, highlighting a "near-zero incident rate" across 195,000 cases nationwide.
Understanding YAG-Capsulotomy and Selective Laser Trabeculectomy
Before delving into the legislative aspects, here is what these procedures entail and why they're essential:
YAG-Capsulotomy
This non-invasive laser treatment is used primarily to improve vision in patients with cloudiness in the capsule behind the lens after cataract surgery. It's a quick, painless procedure that can significantly improve a patient's quality of life by restoring clear vision.
Selective Laser Trabeculectomy
This procedure aims to treat glaucoma by reducing the pressure in the eye. It's an effective, repeatable procedure that can prevent further eye damage or loss of vision for glaucoma patients. Like YAG, it's minimally invasive and performed in an office setting.
The case for legislative change
Rather than introducing new practices, Bramble's proposal recognizes the capabilities of optometrists. Optometrists are trained in these laser procedures as part of their educational curriculum. The bill seeks to leverage their skills to fill the gap in eye care, particularly in rural regions of Utah where ophthalmologists may not be readily available.
Dr. Ross Chatwin, president of the Utah Optometric Association, emphasizes that this bill would not extend to more complex laser surgeries like LASIK, PRK, or cataract surgery. Instead, it targets these specific, more straightforward procedures that can be safely administered in an optometrist's office, offering patients a convenient and cost-effective option.
The bill passed the Senate Health and Human Services Committee a week ago where it received opposition from the Utah Medical Association, which claims that all laser procedures should only be performed by an ophthalmologist. However, Medicare data suggests that ophthalmologists have allowed their physician assistants to perform these laser procedures for years, according to an article published in Review of Optometry.
A step toward better access to eye care
The potential approval of this legislation represents more than just an expansion of optometrists' scope of practice; it's a stride toward democratizing eye care in Utah. By allowing optometrists to perform YAG-capsulotomies and SLT, patients in remote areas could receive timely, effective treatment without extensive travel or the higher costs associated with specialist visits.
As the debate continues in the Utah Senate, the proposal offers hope for enhancing eye health accessibility across the state. It underscores a commitment to leveraging available skills and resources to meet the healthcare needs of Utah's residents, ensuring that quality eye care is within reach even for people in non-urban areas.
Learn more at https://www.utaheyedoc.org/contact_your_legislator.php.
