1. (a) A prescription for spectacles or ophthalmic devices is defined as a written order signed by the examining optometrist, therapeutic optometrist or physician, or a written order signed by an optometrist, therapeutic optometrist or physician authorized by the examining doctor to issue the prescription. A facsimile (FAX) prescription is not considered a valid prescription. If the prescription is signed by a doctor other than the examining optometrist, therapeutic optometrist or physician, the prescription must contain:

   1. (1) the name of the examining doctor, and
   2. (2) the license number of both the examining doctor and the doctor signing the prescription.
2. (b) The prescribing optometrist or therapeutic optometrist has the authority to specify any and all parameters of an optical prescription for the therapeutic and visual health and welfare of a patient, but the prescription shall not contain restrictions limiting the parameters to private labels not available to the optical industry as a whole, unless the prescribing of a proprietary lens brand is medically indicated. The specifications of the prescription may not be altered without the consent of the prescribing doctor.

Source Note:The provisions of this §279.4 adopted to be effective September 9, 2001, 26 TexReg 6679.