This article is more than 5 years old. Information may no longer be current.
Kansas ODs now permitted to prescribe orals
Click Here to Manage Email Alerts
EMPORIA, Kan. — A bill that allows Kansas optometrists to prescribe oral medications has been signed into law. Gilan L. Cockrell, OD, president of the Kansas Optometric Association, said that some continuing education is required of optometrists before they can begin prescribing, but that “some will be up-to-date as early as the end of June.”
With the new therapeutic pharmaceutical agent (TPA) legislation, optometrists are able to prescribe all oral antibacterials, antivirals, anti-inflammatories and analgesics. They may also prescribe oral glaucoma medication and oral steroids in consultation with an ophthalmologist.
Hospital privileges, direct access
Dr. Cockrell said that ODs in the state do have hospital access, but it works on a case-by-case basis according to the hospital and community involved. “I don’t foresee most optometrists having difficulty obtaining hospital privileges in Kansas if they choose to do so,” he said. “I’m not aware of anyone who has attempted to obtain privileges and has not been able to.”
He said that direct access has posed no significant problems in dealing with managed care organizations. “I haven’t perceived a problem with obtaining access to the different managed care panels,” he said.
Strong relationship with ophthalmologists
Dr. Cockrell said relations between ODs and MDs rank very highly, noting the relatively smooth process of updating the TPA law. “We negotiated updating our law with ophthalmology and general medicine and were able to pass the law with their help unanimously in both the House and Senate,” he said. “I think our relationship is excellent.”
Kansas first received TPA legislation to prescribe topical medications in 1987.
For Your Information:
- Gilan L. Cockrell, OD, is president of the Kansas Optometric Association. He may be reached at 701 Commercial, Emporia, KS 66801; (316) 343-7120; fax: (316) 343-2038.