Licensing Information
Congratulations! As you embark on your career as a doctor of optometry, the Mass. Society of Optometrists and American Optometric Association are here for you, providing you with the information, advocacy, and resources you need for professional success.
But first things first: You need a license. We're here to help. Review this checklist to make sure you have everything you need lined up to begin practicing optometry in the great state of Massachusetts.
- 1. Download an application from Professional Credential Services' (PCS) website at www.pcshq.com
2. Request an official copy of your college transcript to be sent according to PCS directions.
3. Fill out application from Professional Credential Services and make sure you have the necessary materials and fee enclosed.
4. They will then notify you when they have scheduled your jurisprudence examination. Review important information for this exam here.
5. After you take the jurisprudence exam (consists of 25 multiple choice questions), you should receive a letter with your license number in the mail. This will allow you to practice optometry in Massachusetts and prescribe glasses and contact lenses. To prescribe medications you need to apply for controlled substance registration.
6. Once you have your optometry license number you can apply for Massachusetts Controlled Substances Registration. Visit the following website:https://www.mass.gov/info-details/health-professions-licensing-system-user-guide
Follow the directions carefully. It covers what you need, fees, and how to submit. You will be notified once your application is processed and approved. Processing takes between 5-10 business days after the application is received. There is no exam.
7. Apply for a National Provider Identifier (NPI) number. The NPI is a 10-digit number that will be used to identify you to your health care partners, including all payers, in all HIPAA standard transactions. You will need this number to bill Medicare and other insurers for services you provide. Go to this website: https://nppes.cms.hhs.gov/NPPES#/ . Click on the blue banner to the right Create or Manage an Account. You will be redirected to the CMS website. Once on the CMS website click on the gray banner on the right Create Account Now and follow the directions carefully.
8. Apply to be a Medicare Provider through Medicare's PECOS System: https://pecos.cms.hhs.
9. Enroll as a MassHealth Provider here: https://www.mass.gov/
10. Sign up for Malpractice insurance. Contact Optometric Protector Plan at (888-297-5230) or head to AOA Excel to explore options.
11. MassPAT Registration: Formerly known as the Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP)
State law requires that all Massachusetts prescribers query the state Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP) database prior to every prescription for a Schedule II or III narcotic medication or a benzodiazepine.
Need help, please call or email.
Tel: 800-322-2303 ext. 7702
Email: pprc@mms.org
http://www.massmed.org/
