News from the COA: California Optometrists Celebrate New Option to Expand Access to Eye Care for Patients

August 27, 2025

SACRAMENTO, CA – Today, the California Optometric Association (COA) celebrated the adoption of new California State Board of Optometry regulations the association championed, authorizing optometrists to use noninvasive radiofrequency (RF) technology to treat dry eye disease. For years, COA and its members have advocated to expand patients’ access to vision care services that can be safely performed by doctors of optometry who have extensive training and education. RF technology is an example of innovative technologies and care that can be performed by optometrists, rather than forcing patients into long waits or long drives to be treated by specialty care physicians. 

“Optometrists are on the frontlines of diagnosing and treating eye diseases, and this decision by the Board of Optometry ensures that Californians who struggle with dry eye disease have access to safe and effective advanced treatment options in their local eye doctors’ office,” said COA President Brian Park, OD. “COA thanks the California State Board of Optometry for recognizing the need to make care accessible to patients, and offering optometrists another treatment option to improve patient eye care.”

“Dry eye disease can be debilitating, and for too long, patients had limited treatment options,” said Dr. Park. “Expanding access to radiofrequency treatment will allow doctors of optometry to provide patients relief, better vision, and improved quality of life.”

Dry eye affects an estimated 16 million adults nationwide, with symptoms ranging from irritation and redness to fluctuating vision and eye pain. Meibomian Gland Dysfunction, the most common cause of dry eye disease, is caused by blocked or poorly functioning oil glands in the eyelids. Radiofrequency technology uses controlled heat to liquefy and express clogged glands to support long-term eye health. The treatment has been shown to be safe and effective, particularly for patients who have not found relief with alternative therapies. The new regulations go into effect on October 1, 2025.

###

Contact: Randall Echevarria, randall@paschalroth.com