Which of the following is true regarding the fees charged by an optometrist?

Optometrists have the authority to set and control the fees they charge for their services, which reflects their autonomy as independent practitioners. This means that ODs can establish their pricing based on a variety of factors such as their practice costs, market demand, and the level of service they provide. This freedom allows each optometrist to develop a fee structure that aligns with their business model and the financial realities of their practice.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the legal standing and operational realities of optometric practices. While collaboration with health plans may influence the amount reimbursed for services, it does not dictate the fees that optometrists can set. Similarly, requiring the same fees as local practices or needing approval from clinic management would undermine the optometrist's right to independently determine their charges. This ability ensures competition and can lead to more varied pricing structures reflecting different service levels within the community.