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Tennessee optometry association supports bill to use injectable anesthetic
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While optometrists in Tennessee have been licensed to perform injections for 20 years, the passage of recently introduced legislation would be necessary for them to be able to use injectable anesthetics when performing primary eye care procedures of the eyelid, according to the state association.
SB220/HB555 proposes a change in the law that “only introduces the use of another means of anesthesia to existing injection techniques in an effort to increase patient comfort,” according to a statement issued by the Tennessee Association of Optometric Physicians (TAOP). “This amendment does not allow optometric physicians to perform any new procedures.”
Optometrists have been removing lumps and bumps and draining cysts with the use of topical anesthetics such as drops, gels and creams, according to TAOP President David K. Talley, OD, FAAO.
“Family practitioners, nurses and physician assistants readily perform similar procedures with injectable anesthetics,” he said. “We believe this bill is in the best interest for our patients and the citizens of Tennessee.”
The bill will be on notice in the Tennessee House Subcommittee on March 19 and in the Senate Committee on March 20.