The Arizona Board of Optometry is a regulatory agency responsible for overseeing the practice of optometry in the state of Arizona. The board’s primary mission is to protect the public’s health, safety, and welfare by ensuring that optometrists practicing in Arizona are qualified, competent, and adhere to the highest standards of professional ethics and conduct.
Licensing Requirements
To become a licensed optometrist in Arizona, an individual must meet the following requirements:
- Education: Graduation from an accredited optometry program approved by the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE).
- National Board Examination: Passing the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) exam.
- Clinical Skills Examination: Passing a clinical skills examination, such as the Patient Assessment and Management (PAM) exam.
- Arizona Law Examination: Passing an examination on Arizona law and optometry rules.
- Background Check: Undergoing a background check through the Arizona Department of Public Safety and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
- Licensure Application: Submitting a complete licensure application, including transcripts, examination scores, and other required documents.
Types of Licenses
The Arizona Board of Optometry issues the following types of licenses:
- Optometrist License: A full license to practice optometry in Arizona.
- Limited License: A limited license for optometrists who have not yet completed all licensure requirements.
- Faculty License: A license for optometrists who are employed by an accredited optometry program and are teaching or supervising students.
- Volunteer License: A license for optometrists who are volunteering their services at a non-profit organization or charitable clinic.
Licensure Renewal
Optometrists in Arizona must renew their licenses every two years. To renew, they must:
- Complete Continuing Education: Complete a minimum of 16 hours of continuing education, including 2 hours of pharmacy and 2 hours of Arizona law.
- Submit Renewal Application: Submit a renewal application, including payment of the required fee.
- Report Continuing Education: Report completion of continuing education requirements.
Arizona Board of Optometry Responsibilities
The Arizona Board of Optometry is responsible for:
- Licensure: Issuing licenses to qualified optometrists.
- Discipline: Investigating complaints and disciplining optometrists who violate Arizona law or board rules.
- Continuing Education: Approving continuing education courses and monitoring compliance with continuing education requirements.
- Rulemaking: Developing and implementing rules governing the practice of optometry in Arizona.
- Public Education: Educating the public about the role of optometrists and the importance of eye care.
FAQs
What are the requirements for becoming a licensed optometrist in Arizona?
+To become a licensed optometrist in Arizona, an individual must graduate from an accredited optometry program, pass the National Board Examination and a clinical skills examination, pass an Arizona law examination, and undergo a background check.
How often must optometrists in Arizona renew their licenses?
+Optometrists in Arizona must renew their licenses every two years.
What is the role of the Arizona Board of Optometry?
+The Arizona Board of Optometry is responsible for issuing licenses to qualified optometrists, investigating complaints, and developing and implementing rules governing the practice of optometry in Arizona.
By understanding the role and responsibilities of the Arizona Board of Optometry, optometrists can ensure that they are meeting the necessary requirements to practice in Arizona and provide high-quality care to their patients.
