Oklahoma Eye Doctors Oppose Upcoming State Question

Many eye doctors in Oklahoma say they oppose state question 793 which would allow optometrists to practice inside stores, like Walmart.

9/21/2018 Related Story: Oklahoma Eye Care Professionals Push For 'No' Vote On SQ # 793

If it's passed, state question 793 would add a new section to the state constitution.

The new section would allow optometrists to practice inside big box retailers.

The state question also says, "it does not prohibit (eye doctors) from agreeing with retail establishments to limit their practice."

That is a sentence that is most concerning for Dr. Lyndsey Bigheart.

Bigheart said the ways the state laws are set up now protect optometrists and their patients and if the new law gets passed, big corporations will get too much power.

"If it wins the vote, we will be the only state that has this type of language and gives a corporate entity like Walmart this much control over health care," said Bigheart. "Medical decisions need to be made by a doctor trained who understands what is best for the patient."

A group called Oklahomans for Consumer Freedom collected the signatures to get 793 on the ballot.

According to the group's website, the state question would give consumers more affordable, high-quality eye care if voters approve it.

Election Day is Tuesday, November 6th.