Requests For Approval Of Other Continuing Education Programs

All requests for approval of courses not covered by 16.16.13.9 NMAC shall be submitted to the board in writing by the individual optometrist before the program is attended. A. The request shall be addressed to the board office and directed to the continuing education committee. B. Information such as the following will be required: (1) The number of education hours to be completed. (2) The organization sponsoring the program. (3) The location and dates of the continuing education program. (4) The names of the courses and the names of the instructors. (5) Any other information deemed necessary. C. Approval will be determined by the continuing education committee chairman. (1) If the continuing education committee chairman is uncertain of course qualification, approval or disapproval will be determined by the continuing education committee. (2) The continuing education committee will make this determination in a timely manner, creating no hardships or delay to the requesting optometrist. D. If time does not permit, the approval or disapproval may be given verbally, but must always be followed by a written approval from the board. E. The board's written approval must accompany the licensee's renewal documentation at the time of renewal. [11-17-73; 2-6-87; 8-21-92; 10-14-95; 16.16.13.10 NMAC - Rn, 16 NMAC 16.13.10, 03-15-2001] 16.16.13.11 EXTENUATING CIRCUMSTANCES - DEFERRAL OR WAIVER CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS: A. A licensee may request a deferral or waiver of continuing education or CPR certification requirements in writing, at least 30 days prior to the license’s expiration, should any of the following occur: (1) licensee experiences prolonged debilitating illness; or 16.16.13 NMAC 3 (2) one of licensee’s immediate family members suffers prolonged debilitating illness; or (3) licensee is called to active duty by the national guard, any branch of the United States armed forces, or other recognized public service. B. The written request for deferral or waiver shall contain an explanation of the underlying circumstance and shall include documentation in support of the request. At its discretion, the board may grant the request or variance.