Optometric physicians are trained in the use, science and understanding of these medications. However, unlike 37 others states, Oregon prevents optometric physicians from prescribing oral medications for their patients. Introduced by OOPA, SB 45 would permit optometric physicians to prescribe oral medications when appropriate for better patient care and management of eye conditions. Adoption of SB 45 would enhance patient care, provide more effective healthcare, enhance patient access, improve treatment of glaucoma for patients and bring optometric physician law in Oregon into line with most other states. While OOPA s government affairs advocate serves as a watchdog in Salem, there is much more that must be done if we hope to accomplish the goals stated above.
Lobbyists have very useful but limited powers.
They can explain the position, devise strategies and orchestrate a lobbying effort. However, nothing they do will be as politically powerful as letters, phone calls and visits from the voters back home. In recent years, grass roots lobbying programs in which constituents communicated their concerns directly to policy makers have played a role of growing importance in successful efforts. Time and time again, legislators admit that their first priority is to listen to the citizens and public officials in the districts they represent. While OOPA can play a critical role in the policy-making arenas, our ability to generate communications from our constituent members and their members to lawmakers could spell the difference between success and failure.