Scope of practice and licensure
Scope of practice and licensure
This domain tests whether you can separate the statutory definition of optometry from the license that authorizes it. Kansas regulates optometry under the Optometry Practice Act, K.S.A. 65-1501 et seq., and the Kansas Board of Examiners in Optometry administers licensure and discipline.
Core rules
- A person may not practice optometry in Kansas without a Kansas license. A license from another state, national board scores alone, or a retail optical permit does not authorize practice.
- The Act defines practice broadly: examining eyes, diagnosing and treating refractive and ocular conditions, prescribing corrective lenses, and using authorized pharmaceutical agents within the holder's privileges.
- Licensure requires graduation from an accredited optometry program, passage of the examinations accepted by the Board, and satisfaction of Kansas law and application requirements. The Board may deny or condition a license for qualifications or conduct issues.
- Scope is not unlimited: surgical procedures and activities outside the Act remain prohibited. Therapeutic privileges depend on the authorization held, not merely on holding a license.
- Renewal, address changes, and practice-status changes must be reported as the Board requires.
Worked example
An optometrist licensed in Missouri is asked to consult by video for a Kansas patient. The out-of-state license does not authorize Kansas practice. The optometrist must either obtain a Kansas license or structure the involvement so no Kansas practice occurs; a brief curbside call with the Kansas treating optometrist is different from diagnosing and prescribing for the patient. Document the basis.
Traps
Assuming NBEO passage is a license; treating optometry as only refraction; ignoring privilege limits; practicing on an expired license during renewal.