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DEAR EDITOR:
Ohio's health care system is under growing strain as the population ages. Nearly a quarter of Ohioans are baby boomers now entering a stage of life with greater healthcare needs. Eye care is no exception.
The demand for medical eye care is projected to rise by 24%, while the supply of ophthalmologists is expected to decline by 12% by 2035.
This growing gap makes access increasingly difficult, especially in rural and underserved regions where patients may wait 4-5 months for an ophthalmology appointment, compared to just 5 days with a doctor of optometry.
We are fortunate to have the opportunity to pass new legislation that enhances eye care for all Ohioans. Senate Bill 36 would allow optometrists to perform in-office, noninvasive laser procedures and remove benign eyelid lesions. These are straightforward procedures that are already permitted in 24 other states. This bill would not allow doctors of optometry to perform any highly specialized operating room procedures such as cataract surgery, LASIK, or eyelid cancer removal and reconstruction.
Optometrists provide essential accessibility, serving in 87 of Ohio's 88 counties and offering extended hours in 72% of practices, compared to just 12% of ophthalmologists in rural areas.
Ohio is a state of many firsts and has long been a place of progress in our nation. Our neighboring states have surpassed us by passing legislation that expands care to their residents and allows their doctors to do what they were trained to do. It is time we once again lead rather than follow. We have a duty to our patients to keep pace with the rapid innovations in healthcare to deliver the best care possible.
The passage of Senate Bill 36 will help to ensure that Ohio remains at the forefront of healthcare innovation and excellence. I strongly urge all of our lawmakers to support this crucial legislation and stand with all patients and doctors of optometry across Ohio.
NICK FLEBOTTE, OD, FAAO
Diplomate of the American Board of Optometry
Zone 4 Governor of the Ohio Optometric Association
Youngstown