Wyoming Administrative Code Agency 056 - Optometry, Board of Examiners in
1. What the Wyoming Administrative Code (WAC) Is
The Wyoming Administrative Code is the collection of all rules created by state agencies. These rules provide the detailed procedures and standards that implement laws passed by the Wyoming Legislature.
Law vs. Rule: Laws are general statements passed by lawmakers. Rules explain how those laws are applied in everyday situations.
Agency Numbers: Each state agency has an assigned number. Agency 056 is for the Board of Examiners in Optometry.
2. Agency 056 – Board of Examiners in Optometry
The Board of Examiners in Optometry regulates the profession of optometry in Wyoming. Their primary role is to:
Ensure that optometrists in Wyoming are qualified and competent to practice.
Protect the public health and safety regarding eye care.
Set and enforce rules for licensing, education, and professional conduct.
The board operates under the Optometry Practice Act, which is the state law governing optometry. Agency 056 contains the administrative rules that make the law actionable.
3. Key Responsibilities of the Board
The rules of Agency 056 give the board authority to:
License Optometrists
Set qualifications for licensure (education, exams, clinical training).
Issue licenses to practice optometry in Wyoming.
Renew licenses periodically and set continuing education requirements.
Regulate Practice
Define what optometrists can and cannot do (scope of practice).
Set rules for prescribing medications, performing eye exams, and other procedures.
Investigate Complaints
Receive complaints from patients or the public about professional misconduct or incompetence.
Conduct investigations and hold hearings if rules are violated.
Discipline Licensees
Suspend or revoke licenses for violations.
Impose fines or corrective actions if necessary.
4. Divisions or Chapters in Agency 056
Agency 056 is typically organized by chapters, each covering a specific area of optometry regulation:
Chapter 1 – General Provisions
Definitions (e.g., “optometrist,” “practice of optometry”).
Purpose and scope of the board’s authority.
Chapter 2 – Licensing
Requirements for initial licensure (degrees, exams, application process).
Temporary licenses for new graduates or out-of-state practitioners.
Renewal process and fees.
Chapter 3 – Continuing Education
Requirements for annual or periodic continuing education hours.
Approved courses or providers.
Reporting and documentation.
Chapter 4 – Scope of Practice
Procedures an optometrist may perform.
Limits on prescribing medications or performing certain eye procedures.
Standards for patient care.
Chapter 5 – Professional Conduct and Discipline
Grounds for disciplinary action (e.g., negligence, fraud, substance abuse).
Complaint and hearing procedures.
Penalties, suspension, or revocation of license.
Chapter 6 – Administrative Procedures
How the board conducts meetings and hearings.
Rules for public notice and recordkeeping.
Fees for applications, licenses, and disciplinary actions.
5. How Optometrists Interact With the Board
Licensing: Must apply, meet qualifications, and maintain an active license.
Continuing Education: Must complete required courses and report them.
Professional Conduct: Must follow the board’s rules to avoid disciplinary action.
Complaints & Hearings: Can participate if a complaint is filed against them.
6. Why Agency 056 Matters
Protects patients by ensuring only qualified optometrists provide eye care.
Provides clear standards for optometry practice in Wyoming.
Maintains trust in the profession by enforcing rules and discipline when necessary.
Helps Wyoming meet federal and state healthcare regulations related to eye care.
✅ In short:
Agency 056 in the Wyoming Administrative Code is the rulebook for optometrists. It sets the standards for licensing, practice, education, and discipline to protect public health and maintain professional standards in Wyoming.
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