The American Optometric Association is opposing legislation in Utah, and other similar legislation across the country, that would ban unilateral pricing policies for contact lenses, according to a Financial report.
Here are five things to know:
1. In Utah, this legislation has been cleared to take effect, and is backed by Utah-based 1-800-Contacts and Costco.
2. Anti-UPP legislation has failed to pass in Arizona, Florida, Idaho, Minnesota, Mississippi and Washington after advocacy against them by state affiliates and the AOA.
3. Anti-UPP legislation is pending in California, Illinois, New York, Oregon and Rhode Island, according to the report.
4. Steven A. Loomis, OD, AOA president, told the Financial that anti-UPP bills are "an unprecedented attack on the doctor-patient relationship."
5. The AOA also believes these laws will interfere with patient safety and do not address complications within the internet contact sales industry.
More on quality & infection control issues:
13 new studies on quality & patient safety in Southern Medical Journal
New strategies needed to treat depression in young patients — 10 things to know
5 quick facts on APIC's new program 'Take the Pledge'