Provider-patient relationship to be required for ophthalmic prescriptions

A new law, effective July 1, 2019, will require a provider-patient relationship for ophthalmic prescriptions – such as contacts or eyeglasses – to be issued, including for online prescriptions.

This relationship can be established through examinations conducted in person; face-to-face, interactive, real-time communication; or through “store-and-forward technologies” if certain conditions are met.

The law does not apply to the sale of over-the-counter reading glasses.

Supporters said the law is needed to make sure individuals’ health needs are being properly met and to keep state statutes up-to-date with technological developments, like vision-testing websites and apps.

Rep. Dave Pinto (DFL-St. Paul) and Sen. Karin Housley (R-St. Marys Point) are the sponsors.

HF559*/SF544/CH31

HF0559* / SF0544 / CH31