Section 3Sec./Art. 3

Definition of Terms. - As used in this Act, the following terms shall be defined as follows:

a. "Optometry" - The science and art of examining the human eye, analyzing the ocular function, prescribing and dispensing ophthalmic lenses, prisms, contact lenses and their accessories and solutions, low vision aids, and similar appliances and devices, conducting ocular exercises, vision training, orthoptics, installing prosthetics, using authorized diagnostic pharmaceutical agents (DPA), and other preventive or corrective measures or procedures for the aid, correction, rehabilitation or relief of the human eye, or to attain maximum vision and comfort.

b. "Optometrist" - A person who has been certified by the Board of Optometry and registered with the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) as being qualified to practice optometry in the Philippines.

c. "Optometrist in good standing" - A registered optometrist who is authorized to practice the profession in the Philippines by virtue of a valid certificate of registration and a valid professional license issued by the PRC for the purpose.

d. "Diagnostic pharmaceutical agents" - Specific topical drugs used to aid optometrists in their examination of the human eye. Until otherwise specified by the Board of Optometry, upon approval by the Secretary of the Department of Health (DOH) upon the recommendation of the Bureau of Food and Drugs (BFAD), these agents shall be limited to the following:

(1) Phenyleprine

2.5% ophthalmic drops;

(2) Tropicamide

0.5% ophthalmic drops;

(3) Proparacaine

0.5% ophthalmic drops;

(4) Oxybuprocaine HCL

0.4% ophthalmic drops; and

(5) Fluorecein strips.

e. "Certificate of registration" - A document signed by the Commissioner of the PRC and by all members of the Board of Optometry and bearing its seal, issued to an applicant who has satisfied the requirements for the practice of optometry. It shall serve as proof that the registrant is qualified to practice the profession in the Philippines.

f. "Professional license" - A renewable card, issued by the PRC to a registered optometrist, indicating that he is competent and authorized to practice optometry in the Philippines. Until the loss of its validity or its expiration, such license shall serve as evidence that its bearer is an optometrist in good standing.

g. "Code of professional ethics" - A set of standards relating to the conduct, integrity and moral duties of optometrists, as prescribed by the duly integrated and accredited national organization of optometrists and adopted and promulgated by the Board of Optometry upon the approval by the PRC.

THE PRACTICE OF OPTOMETRY