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Indiana legislature looks at eye pain
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A measure is being considered by the Indiana House of Representatives to allow Optometrists to prescribe, dispense or administer controlled substances for pain caused by an injury or condition of the eye. The measure, House Bill 1006, was authored by Rep. David Wolkins.
Currently, Optometrists in 43 states, including Illinois, Ohio, Michigan and Kentucky, can prescribe controlled substances such as Tylenol 3 ® and Lortab ® for the treatment of pain caused by such things as corneal abrasions (i.e. scratch from metal or wood), corneal ulcers and corneal burns (sometimes caused by curling irons).
Indiana Optometrists have the education, training and authority to treat the injury or condition, but are sometimes limited by the availability of adequate pain medication. Optometry schools, such as the Indiana University School of Optometry, have long trained students studying for doctorate degrees in Optometry on the use, effects and side effects of controlled substances. | |||
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