Top issues that will affect doctors of optometry in 2014

Now that the major Affordable Care Act (ACA) provisions have taken effect on January 1, policymakers will be closely watching the impact the changes have on quality of care, access and cost. Doctor involvement in the American Optometric Association (AOA) and the California Optometric Association (COA) is more important than ever.

Below is a list of the top five issues that doctors of optometry will face in 2014:

1. Redefining optometry. In 2014, California is ground zero for a history-making fight for the future of optometry. We lag behind several states that allow optometrists to practice to a greater extent of their training and capabilities. In 2014, we will continue to support Senate Bill 492, COA-sponsored legislation introduced last year to expand access to health care by allowing doctors of optometry to provide more eye care services and some primary care services, like vaccinations. According to policy experts, the current provider shortage - that is only expected to get worse under the ACA - can be addressed if all providers are utilized to the fullest extent of their training. It is time for policymakers to stand up to powerful medical lobbies and do the right thing. Doctors of optometry can help ease a critical primary care doctor shortage and make the promise of the ACA a reality.

2. Increase access to medical panels. Another top priority this year is to increase the number of health plans that contract with doctors of optometry for medical eye services in addition to vision care. COA is continuing to meet with health plans and other payers to demonstrate how we can save the system money by fully utilizing doctors of optometry. We are also encouraging patients who experience problems to complain to regulatory agencies responsible for ensuring coordination of care.

3. Dramatic expansion of Medi-Cal. As of January 1, 2014, more than one million Californians have vision coverage through a Medi-Cal managed care plan. Adequate reimbursement rates will be necessary to ensure access to care for these newly enrolled individuals. 

4. Implementation of ICD-10. AOA and COA are providing information and resources to ensure members are ready to bill for services under the new ICD-10 code system beginning October 1, 2014. (See "AOA free webinar: ICD-10, are you prepared?" in this newsletter.)

5. Meaningful use of electronic health records (EHR). Many believe that EHRs will be required for third-party payments in the future. AOA and COA are helping members get reimbursed for adopting and meaningfully using EHR technologies. (See COA EHR FAQ fact sheet - member login required.)

2014 promises to be a busy year. AOA and COA will continue to advocate for positive legislative and industry changes that benefit doctors of optometry and their patients.

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