Increased scope of practice: a survey of Missouri doctors of optometry

This study attempts to assess the effects on the Missouri optometric community resultant from the recent expansion in the scope of practice to include the management of ocular disease with pharmaceutical agents. A majority of those responding reported they felt comfortable in providing such services. They also reported an increase in income and patient retention. Improved relations with ophthalmologists and a greater willingness to comanage patients were perceived by some as other benefits. Over half of the respondents have received referrals from primary care physicians for therapeutic services.