What is necessary for an optometrist to be able to prescribe medications in Virginia?

For an optometrist to prescribe medications in Virginia, obtaining a Therapeutic Pharmaceutical Agents (TPA) certification is essential. This certification demonstrates that the optometrist has completed the necessary training and education to safely and effectively prescribe medications for the treatment of various ocular conditions and to manage certain systemic conditions that may impact eye health.

While a DEA registration plays a role in prescribing controlled substances, it is contingent upon having the appropriate authority to prescribe in the first place, which is granted through the TPA certification. Similarly, a state pharmacy license or an advanced degree in medicine is not required for optometrists to prescribe medications. Thus, TPA certification stands as the critical requirement for optometrists seeking to have prescribing privileges in Virginia.