FTC Proposes Changes to the 2004 Contact Lens Rule and Sets Deadline for Comments
The FTC proposal, if it becomes final, would require contact lens prescribers to obtain a patient’s signed acknowledgment that states: “My eyecare professional provided me with a copy of my contact lens prescription at the completion of my contact lens fitting, and; I understand I am free to purchase contact lenses from the seller of my choice.”
In addition, the FTC’s proposal would require prescribers to keep a copy of this signed acknowledgement on file (either hard copy or an electronic version) for at least three years.
Some observers, including the public policy research organization R Street Institute, view the FTC’s proposal as favorable to online retailers of contact lenses. However, companies and organizations on the other side of this issue are reviewing the FTC proposal and likely will file comments to the proposed new rule.
