AOA offers resource on updated Eyeglass Rule
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The American Optometric Association has provided a resource of frequently asked questions and other important details about the updated Eyeglass Rule, which goes into effect Sept. 24.
The updated rule, also known as the Ophthalmic Practice Rules, will require optometrists to obtain patient confirmation that they received their eyeglass prescription during their appointment. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) states that the prescription must be given to a patient before promoting sales of eyeglasses or contact lenses.
“For decades, the FTC’s Eyeglass Rule has promoted competition by ensuring that consumers can shop around for lower prices,” Samuel Levine, director of the Bureau of Consumer Protection, said in an FTC press release. “The FTC’s updated rule will strengthen compliance and make this market more fair and competitive.”
According to the AOA, optometrists can provide prescriptions electronically if the patient consents to electronic delivery, although the specific method of delivery must be identified, whether that be email, portal or another option. The same consent form may be used for eyeglasses and contact lens prescriptions, and doctors must maintain documentation of acknowledgment and consent forms for at least 3 years.
Failure to comply with these requirements could result in warning letters and civil monetary penalties, the AOA said.
For additional information about the updated rule, as well as authorization templates, the AOA has an Eyeglass Rule compliance kit on its website.
References:
- Eyeglass Rule compliance toolkit. https://www.aoa.org/AOA/Documents/Practice%20Management/practice%20resources/Eyeglass%20Rule%20Frequently%20Asked%20Questions%207%2026%2024.pdf. Accessed Sept. 23, 2024.
- FTC announces final Eyeglass Rule implementing updates to promote competition and expand consumer choice. https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2024/06/ftc-announces-final-eyeglass-rule-implementing-updates-promote-competition-expand-consumer-choice. Published June 27, 2024. Accessed Sept. 23, 2024.
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