Ophthalmologists warn new rules dangerous

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- Medical officials in the state are asking Governor Brad Henry to reject a rule they say will allow non-surgeons to perform surgeries.<br/><br/>Ophthalmologists say the emergency rule

Tuesday, October 5th 2004, 2:56 pm

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- Medical officials in the state are asking Governor Brad Henry to reject a rule they say will allow non-surgeons to perform surgeries.

Ophthalmologists say the emergency rule adopted by the Oklahoma Board of Examiners in Optometry puts eye patients at risk.

Optometrists say the new rule only allows them to perform procedures they've been doing for more than 20 years. David Cockrell of the optometry board says the rule allows them to remove a foreign substance from the eye, drain a clogged gland on the eyelid and remove small bumps or skin growths.