NV Optometry Jurisprudence cheat sheet

Optometry is regulated under NRS Chapter 636 (Nevada Optometry Act) and NAC Chapter 636 (regulations adopted by the Board); NRS sets statutory authority, NAC supplies operative detail.

A license is required to practice or to hold oneself out as an optometrist; unlicensed practice and aiding unlicensed practice are both grounds for discipline.

Scope of practice includes refraction, prescribing corrective lenses, contact lens fitting, and detection of ocular disease; the statute expressly excludes surgery and, except as authorized by law, the use of pharmaceutical agents beyond the statutory grant.

The Board may issue licenses by examination, by endorsement/reciprocity for licensees from other jurisdictions, and may provide for a temporary or limited license as set out in statute and regulation.

Continuing education is a condition of biennial renewal; the Board sets the required hours and acceptable subject categories by regulation, and licensees must retain documentation for audit.

Grounds for disciplinary action include fraud or deceit in obtaining a license, gross negligence, practicing beyond scope, impairment by alcohol or drugs, and failure to comply with Board orders.

Patient record requirements: the optometrist must keep records of examination, diagnosis, and treatment for the period set by regulation, and must furnish records or prescriptions to the patient on request.

Advertising and professional conduct are regulated: statements must not be false, deceptive, or misleading, and fee or discount claims must be verifiable.

Violations may result in reprimand, probation, suspension, revocation, civil penalties, or cost recovery, imposed after notice and an opportunity for a hearing.

The Nevada State Board of Optometry administers the Act; members are appointed by the Governor and include optometrist members and public members, with terms and composition fixed by NRS 636.

The Board's core functions are licensure, examination administration, rulemaking under NAC 636, complaint investigation, and disciplinary adjudication.

Application requirements typically include graduation from an accredited school or college of optometry, passage of required national and state examinations, and good moral character.

The Board may deny a license for unprofessional conduct, conviction of certain crimes, or failure to meet statutory qualifications; applicants are entitled to notice and a hearing.

The Board adopts regulations through the standard state rulemaking process, including public notice, a comment period, and filing with the Legislative Counsel Bureau.

Disciplinary process: complaint, investigation, possible settlement or consent agreement, formal hearing, findings and order, and appeal rights consistent with the Nevada Administrative Procedure Act.

License renewal is biennial; failure to renew timely may require reinstatement, including payment of late fees and proof of continuing education.

The Board publishes licensee information and disciplinary actions, and licensees must report changes of address and any adverse action taken by another jurisdiction.