By Dr. Elizabeth Muckley

While it is not mandatory, I encourage Ohio ODs to obtain a DEA license.  This national identification number issued by the U.S. Department of Justice Drug Enforcement Administration Office of Diversion Control is used by drug companies to track OD prescribing habits, It is especially important to these companies when allocating funds to optometry for research or support of CE meetings.  Insurance companies and pharmacies also use DEA numbers to track optometry’s prescribing habits.

Ohio optometrists receive a TPA (therapeutic pharmaceutical agent) number from the Ohio State Board of Optometry at the time of licensure; however, TPA numbers are unique to Ohio and many national entities and certifying boards are not familiar with them. OOA members worked hard during the last scope update to obtain the privilege for ODs to receive a DEA license and prescribe narcotics when appropriate.

Please go to https://ohioeyes.org/2015/11/20/scheduled-narcotics/ for information on how to obtain your DEA license.