Which types of glaucoma are ODs permitted to treat in patients over 18?

Optometrists (ODs) in California are permitted to treat specific types of glaucoma, particularly those that are more common and manageable within the scope of their training. Open-angle glaucoma, pigmentary glaucoma, exfoliation glaucoma, and steroid-induced glaucoma fall under the categories that ODs can treat in patients aged 18 and older.

This reflects the understanding that open-angle glaucoma is the most prevalent form of the disease and is typically chronic, allowing for ongoing management with medications that ODs are trained to prescribe. Pigmentary and exfoliation glaucomas are also variants that generally present in a manner compatible with optometric care. Steroid-induced glaucoma is significant due to its potential to develop in patients receiving corticosteroids, and since ODs have the capability to monitor and manage these patients, they are allowed to treat it.

Some types of glaucoma, particularly closed-angle and secondary glaucoma, may require more advanced surgical interventions or specialized treatment plans that fall beyond the typical scope of optometric practice, which is why those are not included in the types of glaucoma ODs are permitted to treat. It's essential to recognize the distinction based on the complexity and urgency of the management strategies involved with each type of glaucoma.