New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules Opt - Board of Registration in Optometryn
New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules — Board of Registration in Optometry
1. Overview
The Board of Registration in Optometry in New Hampshire is responsible for regulating the practice of optometry in the state. Its rules are part of the New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules and cover:
Licensing of optometrists
Scope of practice
Continuing education
Professional conduct and discipline
The purpose is to protect public health and ensure safe, competent eye care services.
2. Legal Authority
The Board operates under:
New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA) Chapter 327, which governs optometry.
The Administrative Rules implement the statutory requirements and provide detailed regulations for optometrists.
The Board is authorized to adopt rules, issue licenses, conduct investigations, and discipline licensees.
3. Licensing Requirements
To practice optometry in New Hampshire, an applicant must obtain a license from the Board. Key requirements include:
(a) Educational Qualifications
Graduation from an accredited school or college of optometry recognized by the Board.
(b) Examination
Successful completion of:
National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) exams, or equivalent
Any additional state-specific examinations required by the Board
(c) Application Process
Submit an application with:
Proof of education and examination
Personal information and background checks
Fees as prescribed
(d) License Renewal
Licenses are renewed biennially (every two years).
Continuing education requirements must be met for renewal.
4. Scope of Practice
The Board defines what licensed optometrists may do, including:
Conduct eye examinations to determine vision and eye health
Diagnose eye diseases and prescribe corrective lenses
Prescribe certain medications for eye conditions (limited to approved drugs)
Refer patients to ophthalmologists or other specialists when necessary
Maintain proper records of patient care
The rules ensure that optometrists practice safely and within their professional limits.
5. Continuing Education
The Board requires licensed optometrists to complete a minimum number of continuing education (CE) hours for license renewal. Typical requirements include:
CE in clinical optometry, patient care, ethics, and law
Documentation of completed CE courses must be submitted to the Board at renewal
Continuing education ensures that optometrists stay up-to-date with advances in eye care.
6. Professional Conduct and Discipline
The Board establishes rules to maintain ethical and professional standards. Violations may include:
Practicing without a valid license
Providing substandard care
Unethical conduct or misrepresentation
Criminal convictions affecting fitness to practice
The Board can impose:
Reprimands
Fines
License suspension or revocation
Probation with conditions
The rules also describe procedures for investigation, hearings, and appeals.
7. Recordkeeping and Reporting
Optometrists must maintain records of:
Patient examinations and treatments
Prescriptions for corrective lenses and medications
Referrals to other health professionals
Records must be retained for a specified period (commonly 5–7 years) and be available for Board inspection if needed.
8. Advertising and Professional Representation
The rules prohibit misleading or false advertising. Optometrists must:
Accurately represent their credentials and services
Avoid claims that cannot be substantiated
Follow Board guidelines for advertising and professional communication
9. Enforcement Mechanisms
The Board ensures compliance through:
Inspections and audits
Complaints investigation
Disciplinary hearings
Collaboration with other health regulatory agencies
Violations of rules may lead to administrative actions, civil penalties, or professional sanctions.
10. Policy Purpose
The New Hampshire Board of Registration in Optometry aims to:
Ensure high-quality eye care
Protect patients from unsafe practices
Maintain professional standards and ethics
Keep the profession current with medical and technological developments
11. Summary (Exam-Ready Points)
Board: Regulates optometry in New Hampshire under RSA Chapter 327.
Licensing: Requires accredited education, exams, application, and fees.
Scope: Eye exams, prescribing lenses and certain drugs, diagnosis, and referrals.
Continuing Education: Mandatory CE for license renewal.
Professional Conduct: Rules against unlicensed practice, unethical conduct, and misrepresentation.
Recordkeeping: Maintain patient and treatment records for inspection.
Advertising: Must be truthful and accurate.
Enforcement: Board can investigate, discipline, and revoke licenses.
Policy Goal: Protect public health, ensure competence, and uphold professional ethics.
RELATED Blog
comments