SQ 793 could affect more than just consumer's eye-care options in Oklahoma

OKLAHOMA CITY (KOKH) — Kandace Howell has two children and said it's often difficult to find time to take them to eye appointments.

"There's so many things that go into your daily life as a parent," Howell said. "It would just be more convenient."

Convenience is one reason she said she's supporting State Question 793.

If the question passes, it would allow optometrists to open inside retail stores, which could also lead to a cost savings.

"You can order glasses online for cheaper," Howell said. "You can go out of state to get cheaper options so I feel like if I get a cheaper option here, that would keep our tax dollars here in Oklahoma as well."

But the Oklahoma Association of Optometric Physicians said companies are coming after Oklahoma. Executive director Joel Robison said it's because of their business opportunity.

"We don't believe there's a lack of eye care in Oklahoma," Robison said. "In fact, Oklahoma has some of the highest quality eye care in the country today."

Robison also points to certain language in the question that could change the quality. It states retail stores could also tell optometrists to limit what services they offer.

"We changed those laws to get optometrists out of those retail settings and put them into the professional settings and that's what has happened," Robison said.

Howell said it would still be easier for her family.

"I feel like this benefits everyone across the board to have more options to get your eye care," Howell said.

The OAOP said it believes there are plenty of low-cost options for Oklahomans.

They said they believe the doctor's office is the best place to see an optometrist.