Public Advisory from the Professional Regulatory Board of Optometry on Unauthorized Optometric Practice
Pursuant to Section 41 of the Resolution No. 01 (s 2008) or the Implementing Rules and Regulation (IRR) of Republic Act (RA) No. 8050 or the Revised Optometry Law of 1995, the practice of optometry shall only be in premises used exclusively for optometric practice such as a regular clinic/office. Thus, an optometrist is PROHIBITED to examine patients outside the regular office/clinic and / or to use mobile units for the purpose of examining, dispensing, or selling eyeglasses or other visual aids unless with permission from the national or local health officials and/or the Accredited Integrated Professional Organization.
The Professional Regulatory Board of Optometry reminds all optometry practitioners that the commission of any of the prohibited acts shall be punished with imprisonment, or a fine, or both at the discretion of the court, in addition to administrative penalties provided by RA No. 8050.
To ensure delivery of quality eye care, the public are advised to visit optometry clinics that are compliant to RA No. 8050 and its IRR, with the Standards on Clinical Practice and have established strict health measures and clinical protocols, such as but not limited to prescribed routine disinfection of instruments and facilities.
For information and guidance.