Did you know?
Optometrists with the necessary qualifications are able to prescribe some topical ocular therapeutics (medical treatments) for the eye.
Optometrists who have completed the required training, and who have had this training recognised by (endorsed by) the Optometry Board of Australia are able to prescribe ocular therapeutics to treat a range of conditions including:
Sometimes, as with glaucoma, the optometrist will help manage this condition in conjunction with an ophthalmologist.
Since 2005, all optometrists graduating from the University of Melbourne have been trained to prescribe ocular therapeutics. In addition, optometrists can do postgraduate training to obtain this qualification. Over 40% of Victorian optometrists are able to prescribe.
To find an optometrist with therapeutic endorsement, you can use the Find an Optometrist search function at the left to find the name of your local optometrist. Enter that name in the national Register of Optometrists to confirm whether she or he has a Scheduled Medicines Endorsement. The national Register can be accessed via the website of the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.
Optometrists and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme
Most ocular therapeutics are able to be purchased at subsidised rates through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme when prescribed by optometrists. There are a small number of exceptions.
Did you know?
Optometrists with the necessary qualifications are able to prescribe some topical ocular therapeutics (medical treatments) for the eye.
Optometrists who have completed the required training, and who have had this training recognised by (endorsed by) the Optometry Board of Australia are able to prescribe ocular therapeutics to treat a range of conditions including:
Sometimes, as with glaucoma, the optometrist will help manage this condition in conjunction with an ophthalmologist.
Since 2005, all optometrists graduating from the University of Melbourne have been trained to prescribe ocular therapeutics. In addition, optometrists can do postgraduate training to obtain this qualification. Over 40% of Victorian optometrists are able to prescribe.
To find an optometrist with therapeutic endorsement, you can use the Find an Optometrist search function at the left to find the name of your local optometrist. Enter that name in the national Register of Optometrists to confirm whether she or he has a Scheduled Medicines Endorsement. The national Register can be accessed via the website of the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.
Optometrists and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme
Most ocular therapeutics are able to be purchased at subsidised rates through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme when prescribed by optometrists. There are a small number of exceptions.