The House Professional Licensure Committee held a public hearing on House Bill 1188, a bill that would define “ophthalmic surgery.” Testifying on behalf of the PA Academy of Ophthalmology, Dr. David Pao, MD and Dr. Mark Maria, MD fielded questions concerning the difference between optometry and ophthalmology, and the need for a statutory definition of “ophthalmic surgery.” Dr.Linda Casser, OD, the Dean of the Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University, called the bill unnecessary and inappropriate. Dr. Robert Bittell, OD, the President of the Pennsylvania Optometric Association argued that HB 1188 would prohibit optometrists from performing simple tasks such as removing objects from an eye or putting on cold/hot compresses. Dr. Kenneth Cheng, MD testified on behalf of the bill and advocated for its passage. Finally, Barbara Holland, general counsel in the Governor’s Office of Healthcare Reform, articulated the administration’s reasons for not supporting the current bill. Check the Capitol Toolbox later today for the full story.