(a) Unless certified under this section, a licensed optometrist may not administer a topical ocular diagnostic pharmaceutical agent to a patient. (b) The Board shall certify a licensed optometrist as qualified to administer topical ocular diagnostic pharmaceutical agents if the licensed optometrist submits to the Board evidence satisfactory to the Board that the licensed optometrist: (1) Meets the educational requirements that the Board establishes for certification of qualification to administer topical ocular diagnostic pharmaceutical agents; and (2) Has within 7 years before certification completed a course in pharmacology that meets the requirements of subsection (c) of this section. (c) The course in pharmacology required by subsection (b) of this section shall: (1) Be of at least the length that the Board establishes but not less than 70 course hours; (2) Place emphasis on: (i) Topical application of ocular diagnostic pharmaceutical agents for the purpose of examining and analyzing ocular functions; and (ii) Allergic reactions to ocular diagnostic pharmaceutical agents; and (3) Be given by an institution that is: (i) Accredited by a regional or professional accrediting organization that is recognized or approved by the United States Commissioner of Education; and (ii) Approved by the Board. (d) The Board shall revoke the certification of qualification to administer topical ocular diagnostic pharmaceutical agents of any licensed optometrist who does not annually take a course of study, approved by the Board, that relates to the use of those agents. (e) Certification of qualification under this section authorizes the licensed optometrist who is certified under this section to administer a topical ocular diagnostic pharmaceutical agent to a patient for diagnostic purposes but not for purposes of treatment. (f) Except as expressly authorized under this section for diagnostic purposes or under § 11-404.1 of this subtitle for therapeutic purposes, an optometrist may not administer drugs or medicine to any patient. (g) The Department shall collect and report statistical information on the incidences of negative reactions to the administration by optometrists of topical ocular diagnostic pharmaceutical agents.
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