Q1 2025

Some states have already passed similar legislation and are now facing legal challenges from vision plans. The MSO is closely monitoring these proceedings and developing a local strategy. More to come.

In addition, the AOA has achieved a significant win within the VAMC system, which now officially recognizes ODs as physician providers. This recognition, reflected in salary adjustments, will help attract top talent in optometry to serve our veterans' eye care needs.

The AOA is also actively working to delay Medicare's proposed fee cuts for doctors.

The AOA is additionally offering assistance with third-party claims that have been adjudicated improperly and cannot be resolved. Just send these issues to stopplanabuses@aoa.org. No problem is too small. Your experience may be affecting multiple doctors nationwide. In 2024, the AOA recovered over $2.9 million for doctors through these efforts.

On a local level, the MSO has identified three bills, filed by MA MDs in various specialties, that seek to restrict the use of the title "Doctor" for non-MD professions. The MSO is currently working with the AOA and our lobbyists to develop strategies to defeat these bills.

Lastly, our Membership Committee is working diligently to plan several upcoming social events and is continuously exploring new benefits for our members. More details will be shared in forthcoming announcements.

The MSO and AOA continue to work hard to bring its members maximum value. We always welcome feedback on how to achieve this even more effectively. We also welcome those who wish to get involved to help bring these ideas to fruition.

Sincerely,

David Metsch, OD

MSO President

Did you know that as a member you are entitled to 1-hour of legal consultation annually with the MSO attorneys? This is a great opportunity to review contracts, and negotiate terms with your employer or a potential business partner. Contact the MSO for details.

We have also added Working Advantage membership to our benefits plan. Dreaming of a vacation when you see nothing but snow and ice outside your window? Or planning a big purchase for your home? Working Advantage offers discounts on a number of goods and services. Sign up with the MSO member code MSOPTPERKS today!

Are you looking for a way to get more involved with the MSO and make new connections? The MSO is looking for a new Boston District Chair! District Chairs are voting members of the MSO Executive Board and are encouraged to provide opportunities for regional events and networking. This is a great opportunity to demonstrate leadership and enhance your career as well as contribute to your state association. Interested volunteers should contact the MSO or complete the online interest form.

Advancing Vision, Championing Care: Optometrists Leading the Way

Join your fellow Optometrists and students of optometry for our day of advocacy at the Massachusetts State House.

This is a wonderful opportunity for the new practitioner or student to get a sense of the critical role advocacy plays in the expansion and protection of the practice of optometry in Massachusetts.

The day begins at 10 AM with introductions and legislative briefings, followed by organized group visits with legislators. At the conclusion of the day, all registrants are invited to attend a complimentary luncheon.

Tickets coming soon!

MOPAC solicits contributions from individuals, mostly optometrists, for the purpose of supporting legislative efforts in Massachusetts. MOPAC was formed by optometrists and is dedicated to advancing the availability and quality of eye care and ensuring the continued enhancement of the optometric profession through legislation.

"Not-a-doctor" bills are legislative proposals that aim to restrict or prohibit certain healthcare professionals, such as optometrists, from using the title "doctor" or being referred to as physicians. Several bills have been introduced in Massachusetts that include language of concern to the MSO. These types of legislation not only disrespects the extensive education and training of optometrists but also poses risks to patient care by creating confusion and limiting access to qualified eye care professionals. The MSO works to oppose these bills and protect the professional status of optometrists in Massachusetts, but we need your support to continue the fight!

The MSO endorses the following bills related to optometry:

• "An Act Relative to Updating the Licensure of Optometrists” (SD1538 and HD413). This bill will update the definition of optometry in the general laws.
• "An Act to Close the Achievement Gap by Addressing Disparities in Children's Vision" (SD591)

The MSO is closely following this bill related to optometry:

• "An Act Relative to Prescription Eyewear" (HD928). This bill mandates that any licensed physician or optometrist issuing prescriptions for eyeglasses or contact lenses in Massachusetts must include the patient's pupillary distance (PD) on the script. Importantly, no additional fees can be charged for this requirement.

Contact our MSO Legislative Committee Chair, Dr. Jeanne Hopkins, with any questions regarding the above bills.