About Elliot B. Werner, <B>M.D.</B> Expertise I am an ophthalmologist trained at the University of Pennsylvania. I can answer general questions in all areas of ophthalmology relating to diseases of the eye. My special areas of expertise are glaucoma and cataracts, especially the surgical aspects.
Question Just read an article about an optometrist which read "... in addition, Dr.-----,also treats glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, and other concerns of the eye." Am I correct in thinking this is an incorrect statement? I believe an optometrist may recognize and refer treatments of these conditions, but cannot legally treat them because of lack of training.
Thank you, VWR
Answer It depends on how one defines the word "treat" and what the laws of the particualr state are. Optometric therapeutic privileges vary from state to state. There is no national standard. Also, as with most advirtising, truth is a rare commodity.
Elliot Werner, M.D.
