A Cost and Burden to Patients and Healthcare Systems: How Senate Bill 36 Fixes a Problem in Eye Care Delivery in Ohio
Ohio has the opportunity to enhance patient access with the Primary Eye Care Modernization Bill. Senate Bill 36 would permit simple, in-office procedures that are taught in optometry schools nationwide. Doctors of Optometry currently perform these procedures in 24 states; studies show that patient outcomes are equally safe and effective as when performed by ophthalmologists.
Senate Bill 36 does NOT include specialized surgeries performed in an operating room like LASIK, retinal or cataract surgery. The demand for these specialized surgeries will increase 3-4% each year, resulting in an additional two million cataract surgeries needed per year by 2030. Yet, the number of ophthalmology residents entering the workforce each year is stagnant.
In Lake and Geauga counties, where I live and practice, patients often travel 30-plus minutes for an appointment. Patients are comfortable in my office and I am consistently asked if I can perform these procedures. It is frustrating that they will need multiple appointments to confirm my findings and alleviate the problem.
When I became a Doctor of Optometry, I took an oath that all optometrists take, ensuring that I
practice a code of ethics that prioritizes patient safety at the core of everything I do: “Do No
Harm.” Ohioans deserve the absolute best, timely, and convenient eye care. Senate Bill 36 will help to break down barriers to access to care and improve patient outcomes.
Dr. Taylor Wrubel is an optometrist with Chardon and Chesterland Family Eyecare in Chardon, Ohio.
