N.M. Code R. § 16.16.19.10 – Contact Lens Policies and Procedures

A. All contact lenses used in the determination of a contact lens prescription are considered to be diagnostic lenses, and the use of such lenses by anyone other than a licensed optometrist or physician, or person under the direct supervision of a licensed optometrist or physician, shall constitute the practice of optometry.
B. Any New Mexico licensed optometrist who dispenses contact lenses will observe the following provisions:
(1) maintain regular office hours and be physically accessible to the patient;
(2) be actively interacting with the patient's professional care designed to detect disease, prevent infection due to patient and/or product variability;
(3) provide eye examinations and/or contact lens related office visits; and
(4) require a valid replacement contact lens prescription signed by the prescribing doctor.
[6-24-94; 10-14-95; 16.16.19.10 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 16.19.10, 03-15-2001; A, 6-08-01; A, 03-15-2004]