FTC Staff/DOJ Joint Comment to Puerto Rico Legislature Regarding SB 991, Which Would Expand the Scope of Practice For Optometrists and Allow Them To Use and Prescribe Medications To Diagnose and Treat Diseases of the Eye

FTC staff and DOJ submitted a comment, in response to a request from Puerto Rico Representative Jose L. Báez Rivera, regarding potential legislation to expand the scope of practice for optometrists and allow them to use and prescribe medications to diagnose and treat diseases of the eye. Currently, ophthalmologists in Puerto Rico have this authority. The statement describes the potential benefits to patients of enhanced competition among eye care providers, which may include improved access and lower prices. It recommends that the legislature “only maintain those restrictions necessary to ensure patient health and safety.”