Diagnosing and Treating Glaucoma in Massachusetts
Did you know? Massachusetts optometrists treat individuals with glaucoma through oral and topical pharmaceuticals. This helps to ease the burden of access and cost for people in need of treatment.
Massachusetts residents don’t have to go through the process of obtaining a referral or appointment with a specialist for treatment. Patients diagnosed by the optometrist can continue to be treated and receive follow-up care from the same doctor. 
According to the Massachusetts Society for Optometrists, early diagnosis and management of glaucoma offers protection against a higher risk of vision loss or blindness.
Optometrists are fully trained in the treatment of glaucoma and have been able to do so in 49 states for many years. Now, Massachusetts allows optometrists to do what they are trained to do. NECO has been training optometry students to do the same for decades. NECO students learn about glaucoma and its treatment, with most graduates going on to treat the condition around the world.
“Access and continuity of care are improved by having the diagnosis, follow-up, and treatment of glaucoma all with the same doctor” states Dr. Gary Chu, OD, MPH, VP of Professional Affairs. “NECO’s curriculum and clinical training has always prepared students to practice full scope optometry in any state. We are pleased that Massachusetts has expanded provider privileges to serve the needs of patients.”
This shift in state legislation makes it so doctors provide a broader scope of care with patients to ensure they receive a more personalized treatment plan.
Both NECO Center for Eye care locations have state-of-the-art glaucoma imaging technology that help us treat and manage this condition. We are able to use optical coherence tomography imaging to better diagnose and treat glaucoma.
“We have accomplished optometrists and the latest glaucoma imaging technology at both locations to help diagnose and treat our patients with glaucoma,” shares Dr. Timothy Bossie, OD, FAAO, Director, NECO Center for Eye Care Commonwealth and Roslindale.
Ask your provider about treatment or obtaining a diagnosis at your next appointment, or schedule a visit to learn more.