Coverage for optometric services ACTIVE

Notwithstanding any provision of law or any rule or regulation to the contrary, the Office of Group Benefits shall provide its eligible benefits, as defined by the program, for visual services which are rendered within the lawful scope of practice of a duly licensed optometrist as defined in R.S. 37:1041. There shall be no discrimination in the payment of benefits allowed for such visual services, whether performed by an optometrist or physician, in instances where the services performed are within the lawful scope of practice of both professions. The coverage required under this Section shall not apply to payment for routine eye examinations, glasses, contact lenses, or office visits wherein the optometrist refers the patient to an ophthalmologist.