58-16a-601. Scope of practice.

236 words·~1 min read·/ut/title-58/chapter-16a/58-16a-601

A research copy — for the controlling text, always check the official state or federal source. Not legal advice.

Effective 5/6/2026

(1)An optometrist may:

(a)provide optometric services not specifically prohibited under this chapter or division rules if the services are within the optometrist's training, skills, and scope of competence; and

(b)prescribe or administer pharmaceutical agents for the eye and its adnexa, including oral agents, subject to the following conditions:

(i)an optometrist may prescribe oral antibiotics for only eyelid related ocular conditions or diseases, and other ocular conditions or diseases specified by division rule; and

(ii)an optometrist may administer or prescribe a hydrocodone combination drug, or a Schedule III controlled substance, as defined in Section 58-37-108 , only if:

(A)the substance is administered or prescribed for pain of the eye or adnexa;

(B)the substance is administered orally or topically or is prescribed for oral or topical use;

(C)the amount of the substance administered or prescribed does not exceed a 72-hour quantity; and

(D)if the substance is prescribed, the prescription does not include refills.

(2)An optometrist may not:

(a)perform surgery, including laser surgery; or

(b)prescribe or administer a Schedule II controlled substance, as defined in Section 58-37-108 , except for a hydrocodone combination drug, if so scheduled and prescribed or administered in accordance with Subsection (1)(b) .

(3)For purposes of Sections 31A-22-618 and 31A-45-303 , an optometrist is a health care provider.

Amended by Chapter 362 , 2026 General Session