West Virginia Code of State Rules Agency 14 - Optometry
1. Overview of the Agency
Agency 14 – Optometry is the official regulatory body in West Virginia that oversees the practice of optometry. Its primary mission is to ensure that optometrists in the state are qualified, competent, and ethical, while also protecting public health by regulating how eye care services are delivered.
Optometry includes the examination of the human eye, diagnosis of visual problems, prescribing corrective lenses, detecting eye diseases, and certain treatments within the defined scope of practice.
2. Composition of the Board
The agency is governed by a Board of Optometry.
Members are typically licensed optometrists with active practice experience, along with at least one public representative to reflect consumer interests.
A Chairperson or President leads the Board, while other members participate in decision-making.
A quorum of members is required for official decisions, such as licensing, disciplinary action, and adoption of rules.
3. Jurisdiction and Responsibilities
The Optometry Board is responsible for regulating all aspects of the profession within West Virginia. Its responsibilities include:
Licensing and Certification
Grants licenses to applicants who meet educational, training, and examination requirements.
Maintains an official registry of all licensed optometrists in the state.
Scope of Practice
Defines what services optometrists are authorized to perform.
Includes eye examinations, prescriptions for corrective lenses, diagnosis of visual conditions, and management of eye health.
Disciplinary Oversight
Investigates complaints or allegations of misconduct against optometrists.
Can impose penalties such as suspension, probation, fines, or license revocation.
Continuing Education
Requires licensed optometrists to complete continuing education to maintain competency.
Approves educational courses and providers.
Public Protection
Ensures that optometry services are delivered safely and ethically.
Protects patients from fraud, negligence, or incompetence.
4. Procedures
Licensing Process
Applicants must submit proof of educational qualifications (such as completion of an optometry program).
Applicants may be required to pass written, clinical, or practical examinations set by the Board.
Once approved, a license is issued, allowing practice within the state.
Renewal of Licenses
Licenses must be renewed periodically.
Renewal requires payment of fees and proof of continuing education credits.
Disciplinary Process
Complaints may be filed by patients, employers, or other professionals.
The Board investigates the complaint, and if necessary, conducts a formal hearing.
After review, the Board may dismiss the complaint or impose sanctions.
Rulemaking
The Board may adopt and amend rules defining professional conduct, scope of practice, and educational requirements.
Rules are published and communicated to practitioners.
5. Powers of the Agency
Issue and renew licenses for qualified optometrists.
Suspend or revoke licenses for misconduct or incompetence.
Investigate complaints and enforce disciplinary measures.
Set and enforce professional standards for the practice of optometry.
Approve continuing education programs and providers.
6. Rights of Optometrists
Right to apply for licensure and have their application reviewed fairly.
Right to renew licenses if requirements are met.
Right to defend themselves in disciplinary hearings.
Right to appeal Board decisions according to internal procedures.
Right to access rules and updates affecting their practice.
7. Record-Keeping
Maintains permanent records of:
Licensed practitioners
Disciplinary actions
Complaints and resolutions
Continuing education compliance
Records ensure accountability and transparency in regulation.
8. Limitations
The Board does not provide direct eye care services; it only regulates the profession.
It cannot extend the practice of optometry beyond the defined scope of agency rules.
Its authority is confined to licensing, oversight, and rule enforcement within the state.
9. Summary
The West Virginia Board of Optometry (Agency 14) serves as the licensing and regulatory authority for the profession of optometry in the state. Its core functions are to:
License and certify qualified optometrists
Set professional standards and scope of practice
Require continuing education for competency
Investigate complaints and enforce discipline
Protect the public by ensuring ethical and safe eye care
Through structured licensing, rulemaking, and enforcement processes, the agency maintains high standards in the delivery of optometric services across West Virginia.
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