Scope of practice to expand for CA ODs?
Several bills recently introduced before the California state legislature propose to expand the scope of practice for non-physicians in anticipation of a provider shortage after millions of uninsured gain coverage under the Affordable Care Act.
Sacramento, CA-Keep your eye on California. Several bills recently introduced propose to expand the scope of practice for non-physicians in anticipation of a provider shortage after millions of uninsured gain coverage under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
Although details are not final, SB 492, proposed by California Senator Ed Hernandez, OD (D-West Covina), would designate optometrists as primary-care providers to diagnose and treat patients with chronic diseases, such as diabetes.
Other bills would allow nurse practitioners to establish independent practices and designate pharmacists as primary-care providers.
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