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CAOS Handbook 2014-2015 Prepared by: CAOS Executives
CAOS Handbook 2014-2015
Prepared by: CAOS Executives
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This handbook was compiled from documents obtained from provincial and national optometric associations and colleges. It does not contain original information. The handbook is meant as a resource for optometry students and recent optometry graduates as a quick reference guide to compare information, regulations, and data across the Canadian provinces and territories. The Canadian Association of Optometry Students cannot make any guarantees regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information found within. For more detailed, up-to-date information on a specific province, please contact the respective association or college.
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Table of Contents British Columbia................................................................................................... 1 Alberta...................................................................................................................... 2 Saskatchewan........................................................................................................ 3 Manitoba.................................................................................................................. 4 Ontario...................................................................................................................... 5 Quebec...................................................................................................................... 6 New Brunswick..................................................................................................... 7 Nova Scotia.............................................................................................................. 8 Prince Edward Island......................................................................................... Newfoundland and Labrador…………………………………………………....
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Yukon......................................................................................................................... 11 Northwest Territories....................................................................................... 12 Nunavut.................................................................................................................... 13
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CAOS Handbook
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Scope of Practice Basic Optometric Practice • The examination, assessment, measurement, diagnosis, treatment, management and
correction of disorders and diseases of the human visual system, the eye and its associated structures.
• All optometrists are authorized to: • Prescribe and dispense ophthalmic lenses, contact lenses, low vision aids and
any other ophthalmic appliance. • Utilize all diagnostic pharmaceuticals. • Prescribe topical pharmaceuticals from the following categories:
a) mydriatics and cycloplegics b) miotics c) non-steroidal anti-allergy medications d) non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications e) corticosteroids f) anti-infective medications g) steroid / anti-infective combination medications h) glaucoma medications in a consultative, co-management arrangement
with an ophthalmologist. • Remove foreign bodies. • Provide diagnosis and treatment of binocular vision, perceptual vision,
accommodative disorders, tracking disorders, motility disorders and any other reading or learning disorder or condition.
Advanced Optometric Practice: • Optometrists who graduated after January 1, 2015 and all others who have successfully
completed the ACO Advanced Certification Course are authorized to provide the following advanced optometric activities (in addition to the basic optometric practice activities):
• Prescribe all oral and topical Schedule 1 and Schedule 2 drugs in the practice of optometry.
• Provide independent diagnosis, treatment and management of glaucoma according to the provisions listed in the ACO Glaucoma Clinical Practice Guideline,
• Order laboratory tests • Order and apply ultrasound
AAO Membership Alberta currently has 680 registered optometrists who provide optometric services in over 80 communities, towns and cities across the province. Approximately 92% are certified at the Advanced Optometric Practice level. Basic demographic data is available on the ACO website.
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License Requirements This process involves meeting the requirements of two separate entitles: The ACO Registration Committee and the Canadian Examiners in Optometry (CEO). The ACO Registration Committee is responsible for processing and approving applications of new optometrists to sit the Canadian Examiners in Optometry National Examinations. The ACO Registration Committee accepts the Canadian Standards Assessment in Optometry (CSAO) examination established by the CSAO (in conjunction with other provincial licensing authorities). Candidates who successfully pass the CACO are then eligible to apply for licensure in Alberta. All applications and the application fee of $350.00 (Canadian funds only) must be submitted to the Alberta College of Optometrists office (contact information is located below). Optometric Applicant Requirements: In order to practice optometry in Alberta, it is mandatory to be a Regulated Member of the Alberta College of Optometrists (ACO). 1. Graduated in 1995 or later:
a) CSAO exam (including TPA portion) or CACO exam. b) Minimum of 40 hours of clinical training in a clinical setting using therapeutic drugs,
plus 60 hours didactic for a total of 100 hours. c) All other requirements as required by the ACO Registration Committee. d) Current CPR certification (Health Care Practitioner level). e) Proof of liability insurance.
2. Graduated before 1995: a) TPA Certification that involved a minimum 100 hour Therapeutics Course, approved
by the ACO, of which a minimum of 40 hours training in a clinical setting using therapeutics, plus 60 hours didactic.
b) All other requirements as dictated by the ACO Registration Committee. c) Current CPR certification (Health Care Practitioner level). d) Proof of liability insurance.
To register with the ACO, applicants must:
1) Complete the Preliminary Registration Form (please visit the CEO website
www.ceo-eco.org for application and cost information), submit all required
documentation to the ACO office, submit the registration fee and complete the
statutory declaration. All required information must be received at the ACO office
before proceeding to Step 2.
2) Complete and submit the ACO Practice Permit Application and the required ACO
Practice Permit fee. Once all information is received at the ACO office and all fees
are paid, an official notification will be sent to Alberta Health Care Practitioner
Registry and the Alberta College of Pharmacists informing them of your status. You
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may not practice until all steps have been completed and appropriate notifications
sent.
Graduates of all accredited Schools of Optometry in North America are allowed to apply directly to the Canadian Examiners in Optometry (CEO) to challenge the Canadian Assessment of Competency in Optometry (CACO) exam. Graduates of non-accredited Schools of Optometry (outside of North America) are required to successfully pass the Credentialing Assessment and Evaluation Exam as set by FORAC; or, successfully complete the International Optometric Bridging Program (IOBP) at the University of Waterloo before being allowed to challenge the CACO exam. Please visit their web-site www.optometry.uwaterloo.ca/iobp for application and course information. Optometry Graduate Intern Registration An intern is defined as an unregulated graduate of an accredited university optometry program; or, an unregulated graduate of a non-accredited optometry program who has successfully completed the International Optometric Bridging Program. All interns must work under the supervision of a Regulated Member. This program is usually reserved for students who have already graduated from a program and are waiting to write the CACO exam or for students who have already written the CACO exam and are waiting for their results. The intern would be allowed to perform any of the Restricted Activities specified in the Optometrists Profession Regulation under the direct supervision of a Regulated Member who is authorized to perform the Restricted Activity and who is physically present on-site where the procedure is being performed and is available to assist as necessary. An Intern Application Form must be completed and signed by the supervising Regulated Member and the intern. The following documentation and fees must also be provided at the time of application:
(a) Copy of Diploma or final transcript (b) Proof of liability insurance coverage (c) $100.00 Initial Registration fee (d) $350.00 Annual Intern Membership fee
Should the intern be successful in their first or subsequent challenge of the CACO exams, only the membership fee paid during that calendar year is creditable against their annual ACO Practice Permit fee. All Intern Applications must be reviewed and approved by the ACO Registrar before the intern starts examining any patients. If the intern is not successful in passing the CACO by the end of the calendar year, the intern must again apply for membership in this program and pay an additional $350 Annual
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Intern Membership fee. As noted above, if the intern is successful in passing the CACO, only the $350 for the current calendar year is applied against the current calendar year Regulated Member fee. The Intern Registration fee is only payable on the intern’s initial registration with the ACO. Application Forms for the ACO Internship Program are available from the ACO office in Edmonton as well as being included as an attachment. For further information, please call (780) 466-5999, or, toll free in Alberta at 1-800-668-2694, or, e-mail [email protected] Continuing Education Requirements An optometrist must obtain 150 continuing education credits in each 3-year competency period. The current period runs from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2017. Individuals who register during the 2nd or 3rd year are required to obtain CE credits on a pro-rated scale according to the ACO Continuing Education Policy. ACO Continuing Competence Program The Alberta College of Optometrists defines competence as having the right skills to perform the right procedure to the right person at the right time. Participation in the ACO Continuing Competence Program is compulsory for all Regulated Members. The purpose of the ACO Continuing Competence Program is:
• To measure, assess, and enhance the knowledge, skill and judgment of practicing optometrists,.
• To ensure each practitioner meets the prevailing ACO Standards of Practice, Guidelines to the ACO Standards of Practice, ACO Clinical Practice Guidelines and ACO Advisories required to provide appropriate vision care to each patient.
• To set an expectation that each member will practice according to the • Alberta College of Optometrists Code of Ethics.
The program is designed to work within the following criteria:
• To be effective, valid, accurate, honest and fair, • To be reliable, accountable and measurable, • To be flexible and non-threatening; and, • To be educational and contemporary.
The goal is that every optometrist will:
• Maintain the competence, knowledge and skills he/she needs to provide service to the public,
• Continually enhance the quality and delivery of optometric services; and, • Ensure his/her continuing educational development.
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All newly registered members undergo an on-site Practice Visit within one year of their initial registration with the ACO. All other currently registered Regulated Members are assessed every 4-5 years thereafter. As required competencies are constantly evolving to meet the changing needs of our health system, the ACO Continuing Competence Program must also evolve. During this past year, the ACO Competence Committee and Council reviewed the current ACO Standards of Practice to ensure that all standards reflect current ophthalmic or medical requirements. All Regulated Members are also required to practice a minimum of 750 hours in each 3-year competency period. Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan Albertans under the age of 19 and 65+ years of age are eligible for numerous different types of eye examinations under the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan. In addition, Albertans in the 19-64 year old age group are eligible for certain medically required services. Examples of treatments include the following diseases/conditions: red eye, diabetes mellitus; glaucoma; cataracts; removal of foreign bodies from the eye; retinal detachments, defects, and other retinal disorders; and other disorders of the eye, globe, eyelids and cornea. Further information on billing is available on the AAO website. Advertising The Alberta College of Optometrists sets rules for marketing and promotion. These rules are detailed in the ACO Guidelines to the ACO Standards of Practice, Section 1, Part 1.6 (Marketing and Promotion). The general rule is that “Marketing and promotional material should be clear, accurate, truthful, complete and not misleading. These rules are available at www.collegeofoptometrists.ab.ca. Alberta Association of Optometrists The Alberta Association of Optometrists (AAO) is very well respected by other health care organizations. The AAO offers numerous member benefits such as insurance plans and discount plans with courier companies, credit cards, and frame supplies, further reducing the cost of practicing optometry in Alberta. The AAO also administers numerous vision care plans with a large number of employer groups. Alberta optometrists have generously supported both the national and provincial media advertising campaign for the past three years as part of their yearly association dues. The AAO provides a large, yearly Continuing Education Program as well as smaller Local Society CE sessions. The AAO also gives a break on association dues to new graduates during their 1st and 2nd year of practice.
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Student memberships are available through the AAO. Students who resided in Alberta prior to attending an optometry school can become members free of charge. Students who are not residents of Alberta will be levied a $50.00 fee. The membership allows students to keep up to date on all activities occurring in the province of Alberta. The students will be sent bulletins, newsletters, and general mail outs containing a large variety of information. A licensed optometrist, practicing in Alberta who works a minimum of 75 days per year and who holds a valid membership with the Alberta College of Optometrists, may apply for Full-Time Membership with the AAO. The applicant must pay all relevant professional dues, fees and levies and agree to uphold the Bylaws of the AAO.
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Contact Information Alberta College of Optometrists #102 8407 – Argyll Road NW Edmonton, Alberta T6C 4B2 Registrar & CEO: Dr. Gordon Hensel [email protected] Telephone: 780-466-5999 Fax: 780-466-5969 Website: www.collegeofoptometrists.ab.ca Alberta Association of Optometrists 100, 8407 Argyll Road Edmonton, AB T6C 4B2 Executive Director: Brian Wik Telephone: (780) 451-6824 Fax: (780) 452-9918 Email: [email protected] Website: www.optometrists.ab.ca Information provided in this section was provided by the Alberta College of Optometrists.
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CAOS Handbook
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Scope of Practice
• As a self-regulated health profession, the SAO and its members are bound by legislation and standards of practice to ensure the public receives the highest standards of eye health care.
• The examining of the human eye by any method (other than surgery) to diagnose, treat, and/or refer for treatment any abnormal condition of the eye, in collaboration with physicians and other health professionals.
• Assessing, diagnosing, and treating visual defects such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and binocular vision disorders such as amblyopia (lazy eye) or strabismus (an eye turn).
• The prescribing, fitting and application of glasses, contact lenses or other devices to correct, relieve or treat the eye.
• Provide urgent and emergent care for “red eye” conditions (these services are covered through the Ministry of Health).
• Perform foreign body removals. • The prescribing, supervising and managing of therapy for the
improvement/monitoring of visual health. • Perform eye health assessments and follow-up care for people with diabetes.
• Optometrists work collaboratively with ophthalmologists, family physicians, pharmacists and other health care providers.
• Optometrists in Saskatchewan have been prescribing topical medications since 1998 to treat or control certain eye conditions, infections and diseases.
• Optometrists are seeking the ability to treat glaucoma and other eye related systemic disease with oral medications.
SAO Membership
As of January 1, 2015, there are 169 registered optometrists practicing in Saskatchewan.
License Requirements
SAO license fees for 2015 are $3,150 and allocated as follows: $2020 to the Saskatchewan Association of Optometrists (SAO), $330 to the Canadian Association of Optometrists (CAO), and $800 to Public Education and Awareness. The SAO is combined College and Association and therefore only one fee is required.
License renewals (by cheque or money order) must be submitted to the SAO office prior to December 15, 2014 pursuant to section 21 of The Optometry Act. License renewals received after December 15, 2014 will be assessed a late penalty and members will be required to pay an additional 20% of the Annual License Fees ($630).
Part-time licenses are available for SAO members who have practiced in Saskatchewan for more than 30 years and who sign a declaration of intent to limit practice to 75 or less working days in any and all jurisdictions. A working day is defined as any optometric
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activity in any given day. Part-time members are still bound by the Continuing Education and other requirements of Professional Bylaws and The Act. A part-time license fee is 1⁄2 the annual license fee.
Confirmation of mandatory continuing education hours, CPR certificate information and liability insurance coverage of no less than 2 million per occurrence must be provided for a license application or a renewal.
*All license application and renewal requirements are available on the SAO’s website at www.optometrists.sk.ca
Continuing Education Requirements Professional Bylaws (11.9): The Registrar may issue a Therapeutic Pharmaceutical Agents Certificate to a member who satisfactory evidence that the member:
a) holds a current license to practise optometry in Saskatchewan;
b) holds a Diagnostic Pharmaceutical Agents Certificate;
c) has successfully completed a course in the use of therapeutic pharmaceutical
agents consisting of at least 60 hours of academic instruction and 40 hours of
clinical instruction, delivered by a school or college of optometry approved by the
Board of Examiners;
d) has successfully completed an Ocular Therapeutic examination approved by the
Board of Examiners with a passing grade prescribed by the Board of Examiners;
e) possesses a current certificate in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (level B or
equivalent); and
f) has completed the prescribed application forms.
Provincial and Federal Eye Health Benefit Contracts
a) First Nations Inuit Health Non-Insured Health Benefits:The Memorandum of Understanding with Health Canada expired April 1, 2014. SAO members are still abiding by the terms while the parties negotiate a new agreement.
Current fees: Routine Eye Examination $61.94 Repeat Eye Examination $61.94 Partial $38.31 Tonometry $14.10 Visual Field $34.53 Eyewear is “bundled pricing” and varies by lens type and lab costs b) SK Health Contracts: (effective October 1, 2014)Contract expires March 31, 2016. All Saskatchewan residents diagnosed with diabetes and all children under the age of 18 are covered for an annual eye examination. Other residents covered per 24- month period are
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those on Supplementary Health, Family Health Benefits, and the Seniors Income Plan.
Annual Eye Examination $55.40 Tonometry $14.40 OCT $20.00 (Professional and Technical each) Photography $6.00 (Professional and Technical each)
Advertising
Advertising, promotion and other marketing activities must be in good taste, accurate and not capable of misleading the public. Any conduct, either directly or indirectly, or through any medium or agent that:
a) misrepresents fact; b) compares either directly, indirectly or by innuendo, the member’s services or ability
with that of any other practitioner or clinic, or promises or offers more effective service or better results than those available elsewhere;
c) deprecates another member or clinic as to service, ability or fees; d) creates an unjustified expectation about the results the member can achieve; e) is made under any false or misleading guise, or takes advantage, either physical,
emotional or financial of any patient or uses coercion, duress or harassment; f) is undignified, in bad taste or otherwise offensive so as to be incompatible with the
best interests of the public or members under The Optometry Act, 1985, or tends to harm the standing of the optometric profession generally;
g) discloses the names of patients; or, h) makes statements which are not statements of fact or makes statements that cannot
be proven to be accurate by the member or clinic; i) is to be strictly avoided as such conduct is contrary to the interest of the public and
the profession.
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Contact Information
The Saskatchewan Association of Optometrists #108 – 2366 Avenue C North Saskatoon, SK S7L 5X5 Executive Director: Sheila Spence Toll-free (Saskatchewan only): (877) 660-3937 Telephone: (306) 652-2069 Fax: (306) 652-2642 Email: [email protected] Website: http://optometrists.sk.ca Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:15am-4:15pm
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CAOS Handbook
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Demographics Number of Optometry Practices in Manitoba
Community No. of Practices Arborg 1 Ashern 1
Beausejour 1 Brandon 7 Carman 1 Dauphin 2 Flin Flon 1
Gimli 1 Killarney 1 Lundar 1
Minnedosa 1 Morden 1
Neepawa 2 Niverville 1 Pine Falls 1
Portage la Prairie 5 Roblin 1 Russell 1 Selkirk 2
Steinbach 3 Stonewall 1
Swan River 3 The Pas 1
Thompson 1 Virden 1
Winkler 3 Winnipeg 92
TOTAL 137 Note: This table indicates the total number of optometric practices (which may include more than one practitioner)
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Age Count % of total membership <30 years 17 11.2 30-39 55 36.2 40-49 28 18.4 50-59 30 19.7 60+ 22 14.5 Total 152 100.0 MAO Membership Status Gender Member Status FT/PT Count of Gender Female Active Full-time 52 Male Active Full-time 82 SUBTOTAL 135 Female Active Part-time 9 Male Active Part-time 8 SUBTOTAL 17 GRAND TOTAL 152 Scope of Practice Practice of optometry means the science related to the assessment of the health of the eye, its related structures and environment, and the diagnosis and treatment of anomalies affecting the functional status and efficiency of the visual system including:
a) The qualitative and quantitative characteristics of the refraction accommodative characteristics of motor and perceptual components;
b) The employment of preventive, corrective, or rehabilitative procedures; c) The detection of disease evident in the examination process; and d) The offering of advice, consultation, and counseling
Therapeutic Pharmaceutical Agents (TPAs) As of July 15, 2013 Regulations under the Optometry Amendment Act are now complete and Doctors of Optometry can now offer new efficiencies in primary eye care to administer and prescribe drugs to treat eye disease and disorders. The prescription medications Doctors of Optometry are now able to prescribe will treat glaucoma, eye infections, eye inflammation (red eye), eye allergies, and superficial eye injuries. As well, Doctors of Optometry are now authorized to remove superficial foreign bodies from the eye.
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THERAPEUTIC DRUGS
(a) topical mydriatics; (b) topical cycloplegics; (c) topical anaesthetics for non-prescription use; (d) topical miotics; (e) topical and oral anti-allergics; (f) topical anti-dry eye agents; (g) topical hyperosmotics; (h) topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; (i) topical steroids for all indications except for the following:
• a topical steroid must not be used in the setting of a corneal ulcer with an epithelial defect,
• a topical steroid may only be used for the treatment of uveitis if the optometrist consults and collaborates with an ophthalmologist in accordance with the by-laws
(j) anti-infectives: • topical antibiotics • oral antibiotics for the treatment of chronic eyelid disease if the
optometrist consults and collaborates with a physician, • topical anti-viral drugs;
(k) the following anti-glaucoma medications: • topical anti-glaucoma medications if the optometrist consults and
collaborates with an ophthalmologist in accordance with the by-laws, • topical or oral anti-glaucoma medications for the treatment of angle closure
for emergency use if the optometrist • (A) consults and collaborates with an ophthalmologist in
accordance with the by-laws, and • (B) makes an immediate referral to an ophthalmologist.
• The drugs may be used alone or in combination with other drugs. The following chart shows what optometrists may prescribe in Manitoba: TPA Legislation Topical Oral Antibiotics ✓ ✓ *
Anti-virals ✓ * Lid Disease
Anti-allergy ✓ ✓ ** Includes Restasis
Anti-dry eye ✓ ** *** Up to 2 classes
NSAIDs ✓ **** Immediate Referral required
Steroids ✓
Glaucoma – POAG ✓ ***
Glaucoma - AACG ✓ ****
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License Requirements Board Exams The written portion of the CACO is held in April/October of each year at the University of Montreal (French) and University of Waterloo (English). The clinical skills portion of the CACO is held in April, May and October at one of the University sites. Exact dates are available from the CEO (www.ceo-eco.org). The Manitoba Jurisprudence examination may be written at the MAO office on a mutually suitable date or by arranging proctoring at another site.
The Board of Examiners summer meeting is generally scheduled during the last two weeks
of July. Applications that are received in the MAO office by July 15th will be considered for approval at this meeting. Applications submitted at other times of the year will be considered as received – approval may take between 4 and 8 weeks due to the time required to convene a meeting of the Board of Examiners to consider the application.
Once you have met all requirements, you will be eligible for registration to practice optometry in Manitoba. Registration will be confirmed upon payment of the appropriate fees. Successful CACO examination results will be recognized for the purpose of registration in Manitoba indefinitely. Successful completion of the Manitoba Jurisprudence examination is valid for 6 months, after which time you may be required to rewrite this examination prior to registration. Optometrist Registration A new graduate who has not previously registered or practiced, as an optometrist in any other jurisdiction must provide the following in order to complete his/her registration in Manitoba: • Completed Application, which must include a notarized photograph • Application Fee ($200) and Jurisprudence Exam Fee ($200) • Original Transcript with respect to OD degree. This must be sent directly to the MAO
by the applicant’s University. • Original Transcripts with respect to any undergraduate degrees, if you wish to have
these reflected in MAO records. Again, these must be sent directly to the MAO by the applicant’s University.
• Criminal Records Check including Vulnerable Sector Search. If the applicant attended University outside of Canada for his/her optometric degree, he/she must obtain both a Canadian and US criminal records check.
• Passing mark on Jurisprudence Examination • Satisfactory completion of CACO (original copy of CACO results must be provided) • Proof of Liability Insurance
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The Manitoba Association of Optometrists DOES NOT accept NBEO. Optometrists who have already registered and practiced in another Canadian jurisdiction are accepted for registration based on their registration in that other jurisdiction. Fees MAO Application and Jurisprudence examination fees (a & b below) are due with the application. All fees are subject to change without notice.
a) Application Fee $200.00 (for application administration) b) Examination Fee $200.00 (Jurisprudence examination) c) Registration Certificate $25.00 d) Drug License $25.00 e) Registration Fee * $3,500.00 (annual dues)
* The registration fee (or annual dues) is based on the year ending December 31st. Unless previously approved by the Council of the Manitoba Association of Optometrists, the full amount of dues for the entire year is payable regardless of how long the individual practices optometry in the Province. Newly graduated optometrists are normally assessed at a reduced rate. A newly graduated optometrist is defined as one who has graduated within the past year and who has not practiced Optometry in another jurisdiction since graduation. International Students Optometrists educated at a college of optometry that is not ACOE accredited (generally schools that are outside of North America) must complete the International Optometric Bridging program offered through the University of Waterloo prior to writing the national licensing examination (CACO). Applicants must have their credentials assessed prior to being accepted into the International Optometric Bridging Program. Optometric Student Registration An optometric student who wishes to do his/her internship in Manitoba must register with the MAO prior to beginning their internship. In order to register, an optometric student must provide the following: • Completed Optometric Student Application, which must include a notarized photograph • Application Fee ($50) • Letter from optometric school confirming the student is attending the school, setting out
the dates of the internship, the name of the optometrist that will be supervising, and confirming that liability insurance for the optometric student is provided by the optometry school.
• Criminal Records Check including Vulnerable Sector Search. If the applicant attends/attended University outside of Canada for his/her optometric degree, he/she must obtain both a Canadian and US criminal records check.
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Drug License All applicants who are deemed eligible for registration in Manitoba who have graduated from an ACOE accredited school or bridging program and passed the CACO in the three years prior to the date of application will be granted a Therapeutic Drug License Continuing Education Requirements The Manitoba Association of Optometrists requires 40 hours of CE during each 2-year reporting period, 10 hours of which must reasonably be related to the treatment and management of ocular disease. Optometrists must also report on hours of practice during each 2-year reporting period – a minimum of 500 hours of practice during each 2-year reporting period is required. Manitoba Health Care Coverage Current rates for optometric services paid by Manitoba Health are: April 1, 2014-March 31, 2015* Eye examination $44.25 Partial eye examination $22.65 Tonometry** $10.70 Dilated Fundus Exam** $21.90 Threshold Visual Fields** $31.35 *Insured patients: under 19, over 65 and those requiring optometric treatment for medical reasons. **These 3 tariffs will remain provisional until April 2015. Manitoba optometrists may bill patients for services not covered by Manitoba Health. Advertising The Bylaws govern the standards of advertising by optometrists in Manitoba. Basically ads must be true and accurate, not misleading, not promoting one’s practice as superior to others and dignified in nature. Conflict of Interest The Bylaws define a conflict of interest as any action or relationship which conflicts, or may be reasonable perceived to conflict, with an optometrist’s duty to assure that all professional decisions are made in the patient’s best interests and without reference to any other criteria. To this end, a conflict of interest may occur when an optometrist is or comes to be in a situation which:
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a) results in a direct or indirect gain, financial or otherwise, other than that earned from the performance of professional services in the optometrist’s practice, or
b) puts the optometrist’s professional integrity or rendering of services at risk of being controlled or influenced by other persons, business entitles, corporations or factors other than the optometrist’s professional judgment of what is best for the patient, in accordance with generally accepted standards of practice, or
c) impedes the patient’s ability to make an informed decision regarding consent to treatment or the purchase of material related to the optometrist’s recommendations for care.
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Contact Information Manitoba Association of Optometrists 217-530 Century Street Winnipeg, MB R3H 0Y4 President: Dr. Kelsey Bruce Registrar: Dr. Lorne Ryall Executive Director: Laureen Goodridge [email protected] Telephone: (204) 943-9811 Fax: (204) 943-1208 Email: [email protected] Website: www.optometrists.mb.ca Information provided in this section was reproduced with permission from the Manitoba Association of Optometrists.
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CAOS Handbook
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Demographics
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Community ODs Community ODs Community ODs Acton 3 Clinton 1 Harrow 2 Ajax 12 Cobourg 6 Hawkesbury 5 Alexandria 3 Collingwood 5 Hearst 1 Alliston 4 Concord 4 Huntsville 6 Amherstberg 6 Copper Cliff 1 Ingersoll 2 Ancaster 6 Cornwall 10 Innisfil 1 Angus 1 Courtice 4 Kanata 15 Arkona 2 Delhi 2 Kapuskasing 2 Arnprior 1 Dorchester 1 Kemptville 1 Arthur 1 Dresden 3 Kenora 3 Arva 2 Dryden 3 Kestwick 5 Aurora 13 Dundas 10 Kincardine 2 Aylmer 3 Dunnville 1 King City 2 Ayr 2 East Gwillimbury 3 Kingston 23 Baden 1 Elmira 5 Kingsville 4 Bancroft 2 Elora 3 Kirkland Lake 2 Barrhaven 1 Embrun 4 Kitchener 35 Barrie 30 Erin 1 Lakefield 3 Bayfield 1 Espanola 2 LaSalle 4 Beamsville 6 Essex 2 Leamington 4 Beaverton 1 Exeter 3 Lindsay 10 Belle River 1 Fenelon Falls 1 Listowel 7 Belleville 14 Fergus 5 Lively 1 Blenheim 1 Font Hill 3 London 73 Bobcaygeon 2 Fort Erie 3 Manotick 3 Bolton 11 Fort Francis 4 Maple 7 Bowmanville 8 Frankford 1 Markdale 1 Bracebridge 3 Freelton 1 Markham 49 Bradford 3 Gananoque 1 Midland 4 Brampton 63 Georgetown 7 Milton 16 Brantford 20 Gloucester 4 Mississauga 144 Brockville 4 Goderich 3 Mitchell 1 Brooklin 4 Grand Bend 1 Morrisburg 1 Burlington 36 Gravenhurst 1 Mount Forest 1 Caledonia 4 Grimsby 4 Napanee 3 Cambridge 21 Guelph 29 Nepean 25 Campellford 1 Hagersville 1 New Hamburg 6 Carleton Place 6 Haliburton 2 New Liskeard 5 Casselman 1 Hamilton 38 Newcastle 2 Chatham 8 Hanmer 1 Newmarket 19 Chelmsford 1 Hanover 4 Niagara Falls 9
Community ODs Community ODs Community ODs
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Niagara on the Lake 1 Red Lake 1 Toronto 273 Nobelton 1 Richmond Hill 35 Agincourt 1 North Bay 15 Ridgetown 2 Don Mills 1 Norwich 1 Rockland 3 Downsview 3 Oakville 40 Rockwood 1 Etobicoke 28 Orangeville 9 Sarnia 13 North York 35 Orillia 7 Sault Ste. Marie 20 Rexdale 1 Orleans 15 Seaforth 1 Scarborough 55 Oshawa 31 Shelburne 2 Willowdale 9 Ottawa 83 Simcoe 6 York 2 Owen Sound 11 Smiths Falls 5 Tottenham 1 Palmerston 1 Smithville 2 Trenton 7 Parkhill 2 St. Catharines 22 Unionville 2 Parry Sound 4 St. George 1 Uxbridge 2 Pembrooke 5 St. Marys 4 Val Caron 3 Penetanguishene 2 St. Thomas 9 Vaughan 18 Perth 2 Sittsville 3 Walkerton 1 Petawawa 1 Stoney Creek 9 Wallaceburg 1 Peterborough 15 Stouffville 6 Wasaga Beach 3 Petrolia 2 Stratford 11 Waterdown 6 Pickering 16 Strathroy 2 Waterloo 75 Picton 3 Sturgeon Falls 2 Welland 8 Point Edward 2 Sudbury 26 Wellesley 1 Port Colborne 3 Sydenham 1 Whitby 18 Port Dover 1 Tecumseh 5 Wiarton 1 Port Elgin 5 Thornhill 13 Winchester 1 Port Hope 3 Thorold 2 Windsor 45 Port Perry 3 Thunder Bay 15 Wingham 1 Prescott 1 Tillsonburg 5 Woodbridge 16 Renfrew 3 Timmons 10 Woodstock 9 TOTAL 2134 Age Age No. % Age No. % 25-30 250 11.7 51-55 220 10.3 31-35 399 19.0 56-60 225 10.5 36-40 266 12.5 61-65 137 6.4 41-45 300 14.1 66-70 52 2.4 46-50 254 11.9 71-86 31 1.5 Scope of Practice
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The practice of optometry is the assessment of the eye and vision system and the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of:
a) disorders of refraction; b) sensory and oculomotor disorder and dysfunctions of the eye and vision system; c) prescribed diseases
In the course of engaging in the practice of optometry, a member is authorized, subject to the terms, conditions and limitations imposed on his or her certificate of registration, to perform the following:
a) Communicating a diagnosis identifying, as the cause of a person’s symptoms, a disorder of refraction, a sensory or oculomotor disorder of the eye or vision system or a prescribed disease.
b) Applying a prescribed form of energy.a. Prescribing drugs designated in the regulations.
c) Prescribing or dispensing, for vision or eye problems, subnormal vision devices, contact lenses or eye glasses.
For the purposes of clause 3. (c) of the Optometry Act, 1991, the following are prescribed diseases:
a) In relation to diagnosis and prevention, diseases of the eye and vision system that can be determined by the findings from an oculo-visual assessment.
b) In relation to treatment, diseases of the eye and vision system that can be treated by other than the application of surgery.
For the purposes of paragraph 1 of section 4 of the Optometry Act, 1991, a "prescribed disease" is any disease limited to and manifested in the eye and vision system that was determined by the findings from an oculo-visual assessment. OAO Membership The Ontario Association of Optometrists (OAO) is the leading professional organization representing nearly 1,600 Doctors of Optometry in Ontario for over 100 years. They are dedicated to helping our members provide the highest standard of eye health and vision care for Ontarians while driving the profession of optometry forward at the government, regulatory and public levels. They work to increase awareness and understanding of the role that Doctors of Optometry (also referred to as optometrists) play in ensuring the health of our patients.
The OAO is your voice in optometry and meets with the provincial government on its members’ behalf concerning OHIP coverage, optometric billing codes and procedures, and other services. The OAO monitors provincial legislation and works to ensure that the government considers the needs and concerns of Doctors of Optometry and the communities they represent. It is highly encouraged that you join your provincial association.
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For Doctors of Optometry, membership offers a wide range of benefits and services to our members, including:
• Timely updates regarding changes to OHIP coverage, scope of practice regulations and the schedule of benefits.
• Monthly e-mail newsletter from the OAO President. • Personalized assistance on OHIP billing issues and help unraveling government red
tape. • Best in class comprehensive professional liability insurance coverage in the
province. • Members’ Only website portal, including access to multiple online and academic resources.
• Attendance at OAO’s Annual Symposium & InfoMart and other regular events at great rates.
• Participation in OAO’s children's vision awareness program, Eye See...Eye Learn® • Access to high-quality online education for continuing education credit.
As an OAO Member, you are also a Member of the Canadian Association of Optometrists (CAO). The following contains the membership fees for 2014/2015. Note that the OAO gives discounted rates to new graduates: Full Active membership Ontario Association of Optometrists fees $1,400.00 Mandatory CAO fees $ 330.00 Mandatory CAO Advertising Assessment* $ 800.00 Total $ 2,530.00 New Grad - Year 1 (90% Reduction) Ontario Association of Optometrists fees $140.00 Mandatory CAO fees $ 33.00 Mandatory CAO Advertising Assessment $ 80.00 Total $ 253.00 Year 2 (75% Reduction) Ontario Association of Optometrists fees $350.00 CAO fees $82.50 CAO Advertising Assessment $200.00 Total $632.50 Year 3 (50% Reduction) Ontario Association of Optometrists fees $700.00 CAO fees $165.00 CAO Advertising Assessment $400.00 Total $1,265.00
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Year 4 + Prelude to retirement, Maternity Leave, Part-time and Practitioners Relocating to Ontario (25% Reduction) Ontario Association of Optometrists fees $1,050.00 CAO fees $247.50 CAO Advertising Assessment $600.00 Total $1,897.50 * Note: The Canadian Association of Optometrists Advertising Assessment is directed towards the funding of our National and Provincial Marketing. License Requirements If you wish to practise optometry in Ontario you must hold a General Certificate of Registration issued by the College of Optometrists of Ontario. If you have a full-time faculty appointment at a university or in an optometric educational facility in the Province of Ontario approved by the College of Optometrists of Ontario and you are required to practise optometry in the course of your employment, you must be a member of the College and may apply for an Academic Certificate of Registration. The Application Process 1. Meet the Academic Requirement Applicants must successfully complete a recognized/approved academic program. This includes the program at the University of Waterloo School of Optometry and Vision Science (UWSO), all programs accredited by the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE), and any program deemed by the College’s Registration Committee to be equivalent to the program at UWSO. All of the ACOE accredited programs are in North America. Under the Ontario Labour Mobility Act, applicants who are registered with an equivalent Certificate of Registration in another Canadian jurisdiction who apply for registration in Ontario will be asked to provide an official transcript and a notarized copy of their Doctor of Optometry degree certificate as part of the application package. 2. Submit an Application Form
• Please refer to the detailed application package for more information; • Submit your completed application form, all required documents and a cheque for
the application fee made payable to the College of Optometrists of Ontario. The application fee is $474.60 including 13% HST. This includes the fee for writing the Ontario Optometric Jurisprudence Examination.
If your form is complete and the required documentation has been received, you will be informed that you are eligible to sit the Ontario Jurisprudence Examination administered by the College. 3. Write Your Examinations You need to contact the Canadian Examiners in Optometry (CEO) for an application to sit the Canadian Standard Assessment in Optometry (CSAO)/ the Canadian Assessment of
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Competence in Optometry (CACO), the entry-to-practice exam for the profession:Phone: (905) 642-1373Email: [email protected] Graduates of all accredited Schools of Optometry in North America are allowed to apply directly to the Canadian Examiners in Optometry (CEO) to challenge the Canadian Assessment of Competency in Optometry (CACO) exam. Graduates of non-accredited Schools of Optometry (outside of North America) are required to successfully pass the Credentialing Assessment and Evaluation Exam as set by FORAC; or, successfully complete the International Optometric Bridging Program (IOBP) at the University of Waterloo before being allowed to challenge the CACO exam. Please visit their web-site www.optometry.uwaterloo.ca/iobp for application and course information. Detailed information about the format and content of the exam is available on the CEO website: http://www.ceo-eco.org. After the exam, CEO will send you two copies of your performance report – one for your records and one to submit directly to the College of Optometrists of Ontario. It is your responsibility to submit this information to the College. As noted above, under the Ontario Labour Mobility Act, applicants who are registered with an equivalent Certificate of Registration in another Canadian jurisdiction who apply for registration in Ontario are not required to complete the CSAO/CACO exam. However, they are required to provide a Certificate of Standing directly from the Canadian jurisdiction where they are currently registered. 4. Ontario Optometric Jurisprudence Examination The College will send you study material for the Ontario Optometric Jurisprudence Examination not less than four weeks before the date of your exam. Here is a link to the electronic version of the study material. The exam is administered only by the College and is held six times annually. Two administrations, one in the spring and one in the fall, are accompanied by a one-day seminar. The other 4 administrations are offered at the College offices without the seminar. You will be notified of the dates and locations and will be permitted to register for the date of your choice. Please note that your application for registration is open for a maximum of 24 months, however the Ontario Optometric Jurisprudence Examination must be successfully completed within 12 months of your application being received by the College. The dates for the Jurisprudence Exam are on the calendar located on the College website. 5. Submit Additional Documents One of the requirements of registration as an optometrist in Ontario is that the applicant must not have been found guilty in relation to a criminal offence in any jurisdiction, or an offence under the Criminal Code (Canada), the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (Canada) andthe Food and Drugs Act (Canada). To provide evidence that an applicant has met this requirement, each applicant must provide a Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) as part of the registration process. The results of a CPIC check must be dated within six months of the applicant becoming registered. If the applicant does not become
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registered within six months of the date the CPIC results were issued by the police, the applicant will be required to submit an updated CPIC check. 6. Citizenship/Permanent Resident Status/authorization to practice If you are a Canadian citizen, have a photocopy of your Birth Certificate, Canadian Passport or Citizenship Identification Card notarized and submit it with your application form. If you have Permanent Resident Status or authorization to practise optometry under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, have a photocopy of your Permanent Resident Status or authorization notarized and submit it with your application form. This document must be valid in order for your Certificate of Registration to be issued and activated. If you have ever been licensed or registered to practise optometry or any other regulated health profession anywhere outside Ontario, arrange for the licensing body where you practised to complete a Certificate of Standing outlining your current status in that jurisdiction. A Certificate of Standing must be dated no more than six months before your Certificate of Registration is issued. Applicants must ensure that they download the most recent version of the Certificate of Standing form from the College’s website. 7. Pay the Membership Fee The membership year runs from January 1 through December 31. New registrants pay a pro- rated fee for the year in which they become registered. An invoice will be sent to new members when they become registered. The Registration Decision and Appeals Initially, the Registrar considers each application for registration. If the Registrar is satisfied that all of the registration requirements have been met, the applicant is issued a Certificate of Registration. If the Registrar has doubts about whether or not the applicant meets the requirements for registration, or if the Registrar intends to refuse the application or to attach terms, conditions or limitations to the Certificate of Registration, the application is referred to the Registration Committee. The applicant has the right to submit a written submission for the Committee’s consideration with respect to their application. If the applicant is not satisfied with the Registration Committee’s decision, he or she may request an appeal of the decision before the Health Professions Appeal and Review Board in the form of either an oral hearing or a document review. The Board’s decision may be further appealed to the Divisional Court. Labour Mobility Under the Ontario Labour Mobility Act, applicants who are registered with an equivalent Certificate of Registration in another Canadian jurisdiction who apply for registration in Ontario will be asked to provide a notarized copy of their Doctor of Optometry degree certificate as part of the application package for administrative purposes only. They are required to successfully complete the Ontario Optometric Jurisprudence Exam and meet all of the administrative requirements for registration including providing a Certificate of Standing directly from the Canadian jurisdiction where they are currently registered. Applicants must ensure that they download the most recent version of the Certificate of
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Standing form from the College’s website. These applicants are to have practised the profession of optometry to the extent that would be permitted by a general certificate of registration at any time in the three years immediately before the date of that applicant’s application. If the applicant is unable to do so, he/she must meet any further requirement to undertake, obtain or undergo material additional training, experience, examinations or assessments that may be specified by a panel of the Registration Committee. Applicants are encouraged to contact the College to determine if there are acceptable registration requirements. For example, there may be acceptable variations in the documents required for Registration. Fees
Note: 13% HST is applicable on above fees. Continuing Education Requirements The current CE policy stipulates that each member is required to participate in a minimum of seventy (70) credit hours of continuing education related to the maintenance of his/her standards of practice or continuing competence from an organized program of learning during every three-year cycle. The current cycle runs from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2017. New members will be required to complete a pro-rated number of hours based on the number of complete years remaining in the reporting cycle following the year they register The College considers an organized program of learning to be:
• a structured learning experience that is presented as a group lecture, a group or individual workshop, or as a text or an electronically provided course
The CE policy recognizes two categories of continuing education—categories A and B: • Members are required to participate in CE activities that would amount to a
minimum of 50 Category A credit hours* while credit for the remaining 20 credit hours may be obtained by participating in either Category A or B Continuing Education activities (*One credit hour is equal to 50 minutes with each course being a minimum of one credit hour and additionally in half-hour increments).
Of the 50 Category A hours required, a minimum of 20 hours must be lecture-based in topics reasonably related to ocular disease and management or related systemic disease. COPE- approved online lectures would qualify as long as they include an examination component.
Initial Application Fee (including Jurisprudence Seminar and Exam Fee) $420 Certificate Fee (upon completion of all college registration requirements) $26 Annual Membership Fee $945 Late Penalty Fee $105
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College Quality Assurance Program The expectation is that optometrists in Ontario are competent professionals who continually upgrade their knowledge and skills to meet the demands of changing practice environments and patients’ needs. The Quality Assurance Program is intended to be supportive and helpful to members, it is not punitive in nature. The College’s Quality Assurance Program is made up of the following six components:
• A mandatory Continuing Education component • An Assessment component to evaluate a member’s clinical ability • An Evaluation component to assist a member in correcting any deficiencies in the member’s practice or clinical ability
• A Remedial component to assist a member in correcting any deficiencies in the member’s practice or clinical ability
• A component to assist in appraising the practice or evaluating the clinical ability of an member by the Registrar
• A component to obtain information from members to assist the Committee in carrying out the program’s objectives
Ontario Health Insurance Plan
• People 65 years and older and those younger than 20, are covered by OHIP for a routine eye examination once every 12 months plus any follow-up assessments that may be required.
• Insured persons aged 20 to 64 years with specified medical conditions affecting the eye can receive an OHIP insured regular eye examination once every 12 months:
• Any of the following conditions: diabetes mellitus, glaucoma, cataract, retinal disease, amblyopia, visual field defects, corneal disease, strabismus, recurrent uveitis or optic pathway disease.
Current OHIP Fee Schedules for 2014-2015 Fee Code Fee Description Fee Amount V402 Oculo-visual minor assessment for patients age 19
years or less or age 65 years or more $25.15
V404 Periodic oculo-visual assessment for patients age 19 years or less
$42.50
V406 Periodic oculo-visual assessment for patients age 65 years or older
$47.00
V408 Oculo-visual minor assessment for patients age 20 to 64 $25.15 V409 Major eye examination for patients age 20 to 64 age $43.80 V410 Automated visual field assessment $25.15
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New Conflict of Interest Regulation 1. Independent Contractor Optometrists will now be allowed to practise in association with opticians, corporations, or others, as long as they remain independent. A written agreement is required that acknowledges the optometrist’s independence, including with respect to the following:
• The provision of services, including who they may accept as a patient • The fees charged • Access to the office and patient records • Advertising Note that optometrists may only enter into an employment
arrangement with another optometrist or with a physician.
2. Advertising Optometrists will have more flexibility in advertising and promoting their practices. Previous prohibitions with respect to the advertising of brand names and advertising with non-members have been removed. Testimonials and superlatives in advertising are still prohibited. 3. Practice Names Most of the restrictions on what a member may name their practice have been lifted. Practice names must comply with the provisions under Section 22 of the new regulation relating to advertising; for example, the rule that practice names may not contain superlatives. 4. Working Multiple Locations Members may now practise in more than three locations as long as the College is notified of all locations. 5. Other Changes
• Optometrists will now have more flexibility in how they charge patients for professional goods and services. The requirement to disclose the laboratory cost of materials to patients has been removed, however invoices must still itemize fees for professional services and ophthalmic appliances.
• Members are now allowed to have a financial interest in optical stores or surgical centres (as examples) as long as optometrists disclose their ownership when referring a patient to the store or centre.
For more: Detailed Guidelines of the Conflict of Interest Regulation Mandatory Prescription Release Members will be required to provide a copy of the prescription for eyewear without request from the patient. A prescription must be given to the patient when two requirements are met:
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• you have assessed the patient’s eyes AND • a prescription is clinically indicated for the patient In this case you would have met
both requirements because you conducted the exam and a prescription is clinically indicated for the patient, even if nothing has changed. Therefore, you must give the patient a copy of the prescription at the conclusion of the eye exam. This provides patients with greater choice of regulated dispensing professional.
Other Resources Optometric Practice Reference (OPR) The OPR articulates the current regulatory and professional standards of practice for optometry in Ontario and provides voluntary guidelines for practitioners wishing to go beyond the basic requirements. Visit the OPR document for the latest updates. Designated Drugs Regulation Please visit E-Laws from the Government of Ontario for the latest drugs available to Ontario optometrists: http://www.e-laws.gov.on.ca/html/source/regs/english/2011/elaws_src_regs_r11112_e.htm
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Contact Information Ontario College of Optometrists 5 St. Clair Avenue East, Suite 900 Toronto, ON M4T 2Y3 Registrar: Dr. Paula Garshowitz [email protected] Telephone: 416-962-4071 Toll-Free: 1-888-825-2554 Fax: 416-962-4073 Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.collegeoptom.on.ca/ Ontario Association of Optometrists Director of Member Services: Bethany Carey 905-826-3522 Ext. 227 [email protected] General Inquiries: Phone: 905-826-3522 Toll Free: 800-540-3837 Fax: 905-826-0625 [email protected] Website: http://www.optom.on.ca/ Information provided in this handbook was provided by the Ontario College of Optometrists and Ontario Association of Optometrists.
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CAOS Handbook
QUEBEC
2014-2015
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Scope of Practice Optometrists in Quebec are responsible for:
• General optometry • Contact lenses • Low vision • Binocular vision • Perceptual-motor examination • Eye diseases • Co-management in refractive surgery
Drugs that Optometrists may administer [L.R.Q., c. O-7, r.10]: Topical anaesthetics:
• Benoxinate to maximum concentration of 0.4%, alone or in combination • Proparacaine to maximum concentration of 0.5%
Mydriatics: • Tropicamide to maximum concentration of 1.0% • Phenylephrine to maximum concentration of 2.5%
Cycloplegics: • Cyclopentolate maximum concentration of 1.0% • Homatropine to maximum concentration of 2.0%
Miotics: • Pilocarpine to maximum concentration of 1.0%
Drugs that Optometrists may prescribe/administer [L.R.Q., c. O-7, r.11]:
• Mydriatics • Local anesthetics, except cocaine • Anti-allergic • Antihistamines • Mast cell stabilizers • Anti-inflammatory drugs • Corticosteroids • Anti-infective • Antibiotics • Other anti-infective • Viral • Corticosteroids and anti-infectives in combination • Lubricants • Hyperosmotic drugs • Vitamins, with exceptions of Appendix F of the Food and Drug Regulations
(CRC, c. 870) • Vasoconstrictor agents • Antiglaucoma drugs
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License Requirements To obtain a license from the Ordre des optométristes du Québec to be authorized to practice optometry in Quebec, one of the following conditions must be satisfied:
• Holding a doctorate in optometry (O.D.) from the Université de Montréal • Holding a doctorate in optometry from an institution accredited by
the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education with the completion of a comprehensive examination (such as the CSAO or the NBEO)
• Being already authorized to practice optometry in another jurisdiction in Canada or the United States
• Being granted, by the Ordre, an equivalence of diploma or of training in accordance with the Regulation respecting equivalence standards for the issue of a permit by the Ordre des optométristes du Québec.
To be issued a regular permit to practice optometry in Québec, a person must have sufficient knowledge of French, in accordance with the requirements of the Charter of the French language (R.S.Q., c. C-11), under the responsibility of the Office québécois de la langue française. A person is deemed to have the appropriate knowledge if:
• he/she has received, full time, no less than three years of secondary or post-secondary instruction provided in French;
• he/she has passed the fourth or fifth year secondary level examinations in French as the first language;
• from and after the school year 1985-86, he/she obtains a secondary school certificate in Quebec.
In all other cases, a person must obtain a certificate issued by the Office québécois de la langue française or hold a certificate defined as equivalent by regulation of the Government. However, a temporary permit to practice, valid for a period of at most one year and renewable three times according, may be issued to a person without sufficient knowledge of French with the authorization of Office de la langue française if the public interest justifies it. For each renewal, the optometrists must present themselves to the examinations of the French language. OOQ Requirements Once the license is obtained, professional fees must be paid and you must be covered by a professional liability insurance that complies with the applicable regulation.
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Fees Application for evaluation of diploma or training equivalence
$500
Assessment $2600 Bridging Program The total cost is determined according to the number of required credits, for your information, currently costs $72.26 per credit at the University of Montreal. Other expenses apply to the bridging program, such as $2000 for the purchase of equipment for the practice of optometry (if you do not have your instruments).
May vary
Final evaluation $2350** Other related fees OOQ Registration $1052.20 Contribution to the Office de professions $23.35 Professional insurance coverage Please contact the AOQ * Taxes may apply in certain cases. ** Part of these expenses may be included within the bridging program. Continuing Education Requirements To maintain your professional competence, you must fulfill the following:
• Complete a minimum of 45 hours of continuing education per reference period of 3 years, of these 45 hours:
• 30 hours must be related to eye health • 15 hours must be related to general optometry
Health Coverage Full eye examinations are covered for:
• Patients under the age of 18 • Patients over the age of 65 • Patients between the ages 18 to 64 and who have been recipients of last-
resort financial assistance for at least the past 12 consecutive months • Patients between the ages 60 to 64, who have been receiving a spouse's
income under the Old Age Security Act for at least 12 consecutive months and who, without this allowance, would be entitled to last-resort financial assistance benefits
• Visually impaired patients Restrictions to coverage:
• Patients under the age of 18 and those age 65 or over are entitled to only one insured complete eye examination and only one insured colour vision test per year
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• Recipients of last-resort financial assistance are entitled to the same services once every 2 years
• Orthoptic examinations, which allow for the diagnosis of strabismus, among other conditions, are covered only for children under the age of 16
• Examination, with dilation, of the inner eye and the retina is covered only for: ▪ Patients treated for diabetes; ▪ Patients with myopia of 5 diopters or more.
Advertising
Code of Ethics of Optometrists in Quebec CONDITIONS, OBLIGATIONS AND RESTRICTIONS ON ADVERTISING [c. O-7, r.2.2, Section IX]:
• The optometrist may claim specific qualities or skills only if he is able to justified.
• The optometrist may use an endorsement or testimonial concerning him. • The optometrist must ensure compliance with the rules on advertising by
people who work, in any capacity whatsoever, with him in the exercise of his profession.
• All optometrists who are partners or work together in the practice of their profession are jointly responsible for the advertising rules, unless one of Optometrists establishes that the advertising was done without his knowledge, without his consent and despite the measures taken to compliance with these rules.
• The optometrist must keep a copy or reproduction of all documents relating to any advertisement for a period of 3 years following the date of the last broadcast or publication
• The Order is represented by a graphic symbol. An optometrist using that symbol in his advertising shall ensure that it conforms to the original held by the Order.
• The optometrist must indicate in all advertising his name and his title of optometrist.
• An optometrist who advertises a price, rebate, discount, free or on a trade policy must:
1. Specify the nature and extent of the services and the characteristics of the goods offered, unless all on-site property are covered
2. Indicate whether services or goods required are not included 3. Mention any important fact to help the public make an informed choice
about the services or goods offered 4. Give more importance to the service or goods offered at the price,
rebate, discount or policy commercial • The optometrist may not, falsely, by any means whatsoever:
1. Invoke a price reduction 2. Indicate the regular price or another reference price for a good or
service
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3. Suggest that the price of a good or service is advantageous • The optometrist may advertise goods provided that he has enough or that he
can obtain sufficient quantities to meet the public demand, if he has only a limited amount of the good, the quantity must be indicated
• The optometrist must specify the period of validity of any advertised at a discount, rebate, discount, free or commercial policy
Please review the OOQ guide for the full section on advertising. For All Other Laws and Regulations For additional information, please view the OOQ guide. https://www.ooq.org/sites/default/files/pages/guide_exercice_2.pdf https://www.ooq.org/diplomes-hors-quebec/information-in-english Last updated: April 2014
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Contact Information Ordres des Optométrist du Quebec 1265 Berri Street, Suite 700 Montreal, QC, H2X 4X4 Telephone: (514) 499-0524 Toll Free: 1-888-499-0524 Fax: (514) 499-1051 E-mail: contact via website Website: https://www.ooq.org/
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CAOS Handbook
NEW BRUNSWICK
2014-15
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Demographics There are a number of Optometrists that practice in a more rural setting in New Brunswick, as well in larger cities, there are a number of smaller cities and towns with active practices. Members practice in locations like Walmart and Costco in the larger cities, there are a number of side-by-side locations in the smaller cities, and private practice is still the majority of offices. New Brunswick is a bilingual province and our membership is approximately 50/50 English and French speaking. Scope of Practice List of Drugs as Determined by the Minister of Health A member may use in the practice of Optometry the following designated generic drugs applied topically on the eye for diagnostic purposes:
• Mydriatic • Phenylephrine (not over 2.5%)
• Cycloplegics • Tropicamide (not over 1.0%) • Cyclopentolate • Hydrochloride (not over 0.5%)
• Topical Anaesthetics • Proparacaine Hydrochloride (not over 0.5%) • Benoxinate Hydrochloride (not over 0.4%) • Tetracaine Hydrochloride (not over 0.5%)
License Requirements $300 to apply to practice in New Brunswick Continuing Education Requirements Each member shall complete no less that 35 hors of approved post-graduate study in optometry in each three years. Provincial Health Coverage There is no Medicare coverage in New Brunswick for any age group. There is a third party contact that offers coverage for those "working poor" and social assistance recipients. Advertising A member may advertise through a medium of communication that is equally available to all members any factual and verifiable information that a reasonable person would consider relevant in choosing an optometrist that
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a) is not false, misleading or deceptive by the inclusion or omission of any information;
b) is readily comprehensive, dignified and in good taste; c) contains no testimonial, comparative or superlative statements; d) by reason of its size, content, method or frequency of dissemination would
not be regarded as unprofessional; e) is not likely to create unjustified expectations or appeal to the public’s fears;
or f) does not make reference to free examination services or products,
allowances, terms of credit or similar information Promotional/Marketing Opportunities Members of the New Brunswick Association of Optometrists may use all forms of communications with the public to convey relevant practice information and to advertise their services. This may include radio, television and print advertising (such as newspapers, magazines, telephone directories and websites). It is the member’s responsibility to be familiar with and adhere to the Act and By-Laws. Following these guidelines does not replace that obligation. Yellow Pages Under “Optometrist” • May list personal name. • Clinic Name must be followed by all practitioners’ names. • May list website information. Yellow Pages under “Contact Lenses” • May list personal name. • Clinic name must be followed by all practitioners’ names. • The listing may include one or all of the following in the Yellow Pages: the
member’s name, clinic name, address and telephone number. • May list website information. Office Hours and Days Open The hours that the office is open must be specific and verifiable. “Emergency” or “24 hour emergency” is interpreted to mean availability 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Languages Spoken Languages spoken by staff or optometrists at a practice may be indicated if verifiable. Accessibility to the Facility for People With Physical Disabilities Universal symbols of accessibility, such as that used for wheel chair accessibility, may appear in promotional activities if accessibility is verifiable.
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Listing of Optometric Services, Areas of Special Interest and Preferred Practice Optometrists may list areas of special interest and areas of services provided. A practitioner is urged to be very cautious in listing services so as to be accurate and complete without being self-aggrandizing. It is preferred that optometrists list specific services or special interests rather than using general terms such as “complete services”, “comprehensive services” or all forms of service”. Optometric Fees Listing of customary optometric fees is permitted. No free or discounted exams or professional services are permitted outside of the office. This includes websites. Discount Fees Discount of optometric fees is permitted in office only.
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Contact Information New Brunswick Association of Optometrists 490 Gibson St. Unit 1 Fredericton, NB E3A 4E9 Administrator: Nettie Whitlock Telephone: 506-458-8759 Fax: 506-450-1271
NOVA SCOTIA
51
CAOS Handbook
NOVA SCOTIA
2014-15
NOVA SCOTIA
52
Demographics Employment opportunities in the city would be limited. Best opportunities would be outside the city limits and in the more rural areas of the province. Presently we have 123 licensed members. Scope of practice • currently in discussions with ophthalmology to develop a glaucoma care model; this has
not been approved yet. • DPA and TPA coverage, which includes steroids, antibiotics, anti-allergy, and Restasis. • unable to prescribe steroids for iritis; unable to prescribe oral medication.
License Requirements Jurisprudence exam is required for licensure. Requirements copied from the Application Guide for Registration to Practice Optometry in Nova Scotia: II. Requirements for Issuing of a Certificate of Registration
1) The applicant must have completed a NSCO application. 2) The applicant must have graduated from a school of optometry, accredited
by the American Council of Optometric Education. 3) If the applicant has previously practiced optometry, he or she must be a
member of good standing in all jurisdictions where he or she holds a certificate of registration.
4) Theapplicantmustnothavebeenconvictedofacriminaloffenseoranoffenseunderthe Narcotic Control Act (Canada) or the Food and Drug Act (Canada) or of any offense of similar laws in any other country.
5) The applicant must have Canadian citizenship, permanent residency or authorization under the Immigration Act (Canada) to engage in the practice of optometry.
6) The applicant must successfully complete all examinations set or approved by the NSCO.
7) The applicant must be approved by the Board of the NSCO 8) Upon approval by the Board of the NSCO the applicant must complete an
annual membership report form. 9) The applicant is responsible for ensuring that the NSCO receives his or her
information. Please contact the NSCO admin offices if you do not receive updates from us regarding the status of your application.
III. Process for Registration
1) Obtain a NSCO application by contacting: 2) Sandra WilliamsAdministrative Assistant,P.O. Box 9410, Station
AHalifax, Nova Scotia, B3K 5S3Telephone: 902-434-8810/Fax: 902-425-2441 E-mail: [email protected]
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3) Complete the application and return it to Sandra Williams at the above address.
4) Enclose a cheque for $500.00 made payable to the Nova Scotia College of Optometrists. This fee consists of a $300.00 non-refundable application fee and a fee of $200.00 for the Nova Scotia Optometric Jurisprudence Examination. The exam fee of $200.00 is refundable if your application is not accepted.
5) With respect to degree obtained and date: If you have not yet received your degree, declare your expected degree and date of graduation.
6) Complete the application for the Canadian Assessment of Competence in Optometry (CACO)
7) Upon receipt of your completed application to the NSCO, it will be reviewed by the Registrar.
The application must be complete in all respects before it will be considered.
8) Once all documents have been received, all fees paid, and the application is complete, the Registrar will allow the applicant to write the jurisprudence exam via email. The applicant will be provided with the study materials. The exam consists of 40 multiple choice questions and is an open book format. The applicant has 10 days to complete it.
9) Upon successful completion of the jurisprudence exam, a licensing application and invoice will be issued to the applicant.
10) When the licensing application is completed and all fees are paid, a license to practice optometry in the province of Nova Scotia will be issued to the applicant.
*Candidates should expect a three month processing period after sitting the CACO before obtaining final registration in Nova Scotia. Membership in the Association is free to applicants the first year of graduation. Continuing Education Requirements Continuing education is through the College. - 55 hrs of CE is required for each three year cycle. For new grads, the number of
CE hours is less than 55 hours depending on year of graduation during the cycle. Provincial Health Coverage • The province pays $57.34 for full exams under 10 and over 65 every 2 years,
plus an exam annually for those who have certain conditions such as: diabetes, cataracts, and MS. These conditions have no age restriction for coverage.
• The province pays $30.80 for a partial exam. There are 6 partial exams a year available for management of conditions such as dry eye, RCE, foreign body removal, and amblyopia.
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Advertising Generally, a member may face allegations of professional misconduct if he or she causes or permits publication through a medium of communication that:
• is not relevant to the public’s ability to make an informed choice; • is misleading or false; • suggests that a member is a specialist; • does not clearly indicate the optometrist or the optometrist’s firm is engaged
in the practice of optometry; • is likely to appeal to the public’s fears; • is unprofessional or distasteful; • could be regarded by the profession as bringing the profession into
disrepute. Price Advertising The following requirements must be met when advertising price:
• the nature and extent of services included in the price must be specified; • any expenses or disbursements included in the price must be indicated; • any additional services not included in the price must be included; • the period the advertised price is available must be specified; • any reference to discounts, terms of credit or similar offers must specify the
nature and degree of financial consideration on offer to allow the public to clearly understand the nature, scope and extent of the financial consideration.
Comparative Advertising Comparative price advertising is permitted when consistent with these guidelines. Members may also use comparative advertising to advertise unique features not offered by other clinics or retail outlets. Comparative advertising must be done professionally and tastefully and must not mislead the public or present false information. Outside Logos and Brand Names Advertisements may include outside brand logos and names that are clearly associated with a product or service offered in the advertisement. If a logo is not displayed in conjunction with a product or service, the public may be misled about the meaning of the logo’s presence within the advertisement. Testimonials and Endorsements A patient’s testimonial or endorsement may not be advertised unless written consent to publication has been obtained prior to publication of the advertisement. Any reference to a patient name without his or her consent is prohibited.
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Signage All signs, letterhead, business cards, web-sites etc. must clearly state you are in the practice of optometry. The word “optometrist”, “optometry” or “Doctor of Optometry” must be included with your logo and business trade names. In Office Material Promotional materials for use within a member’s office are not considered advertising and are not subject to this guideline.
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Contact Information Nova Scotia Association of Optometrists P.O. Box 9410, Station A Halifax, N.S. B3K 5S3 Administrator: Sandra Williams Telephone: (902) 435-2845 Fax: (902) 425-2441 Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.nsoptometrists.ca/
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Demographics
There are currently 20 optometrists licensed to work on PEI and 17 of them are members of the PEI Association of Optometrists. There are 8 practices on the island, but many of them have multiple practice locations. Practice Location Number of practices Population Alberton 2 1,100 Charlottetown 6 35,000 Hunter River 1 300 Montague 1 6,000 Summerside 3 15,000 PEI has a population of 146, 000 people.
Scope of Practice There has recently been a change in the PEI Optometry Act from a list of drugs that TPA prescribing optometrists can prescribe to classes of therapeutic drugs that TPA licensed optometrists can prescribe. All those holding a TPA license can prescribe any drugs that fall into the classes approved. The classes approved by committee are:
• Topical Anti-infective Drugs • Topical Anti-inflammatory Drugs • Topical Immunosuppressant Drugs • Topical Anti-inflammatory/Antibiotic Combination Drugs • Topical Anti-Allergy Drugs • Topical Cosmetic Drugs
Use of DPA’s is permitted; however, optometrists in PEI cannot prescribe oral medications or glaucoma medications
License Requirements
Those that apply for a license to practice optometry on PEI must provide their results of the CACO exam, provide three character references, a recent photograph, a criminal record check, a $150.00 processing fee, and complete a jurisprudence exam. There is not a set date to write the jurisprudence exam. To set up a time to write the jurisprudence exam, please contact either: Dr. Alanna Stetson (secretary of the PEIAO) at [email protected] or [email protected] OR Dr. Mark Burke (registrar of the PEI College of Optometry) at [email protected]
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Continuing Education Requirements If you have graduated from optometry and/or completed the CACO within one year preceding application for renewal of your license for the first time, then you are not required to complete continuing education (CE) hours within your first year of working. Otherwise, you must complete 15 credit hours of CE (3 of which are with respect to therapeutic drugs) in the year preceding application for renewal of your license, and 45 credit hours of CE (10 of which are with respect to therapeutic drugs) in the 3 years preceding application for renewal. This is described more completely in the PEI Licensure Regulations. Provincial Health Coverage Currently, there is no provincial medicare coverage on PEI. If patients do not have private insurance, or are covered by other government programs such as social assistance, Indian Affairs, Veteran's Affairs, etc. then they must pay out of pocket. The only other coverage provided by the government is through the recently implemented Eye See, Eye Learn program. Through this program the government will pay for an eye exam and glasses (if required) for children in Kindergarten (private insurance must be billed first). Advertising Generally, promotion and marketing by an optometrist or on behalf of an optometrist:
a. Must meet the requirements of the Act and Regulations. b. Must be clear, truthful, complete, in good taste and not misleading. c. Must not misrepresent the effectiveness of any procedure, instrument
or ophthalmic device. d. Must not claim superiority over any other optometrist. e. Must not be detrimental to the best interest of the public. f. Must not damage the integrity of the profession of Optometry.
Specific information on promotion and marketing by an optometrist can be found in “Prince Edward Island College of Optometrists Guideline for Optometric Promotional Activities” or by contacting the Prince Edward Island College of Optometrists.
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Contact Information Prince Edward Island Association of Optometrists Website: http://www.peioptometrists.ca Current President: Dr. Jayne Toombs
Prince Edward Island College of Optometrists 15 Ellis Rd. Charlottetown, PE, C1A 9B3 Registrar: Dr. Mark Burke Telephone: (902)368-3001 Fax: (902)628-6604 Email: [email protected] Website: http://peico.ca/
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Scope of Practice Basic Optometric Practice "Optometry" means the services usually performed by an optometrist, and includes:
a) measuring or attempting to measure the refractive or muscular condition of the eye,
b) prescribing and ophthalmic dispensing of ophthalmic appliances, c) prescribing orthoptic treatment for the relief or correction of a visual or
muscular error or defect of the eye, d) removing superficial foreign bodies from the human eye and surrounding
tissue in accordance with the regulations, and e) prescribing and administering pharmaceutical agents in accordance with the
regulations where the optometrist is certified by the board as qualified; Diagnostic and Therapeutic Drugs An optometrist who holds a diagnostic drug certificate may administer and prescribe:
a) topical ophthalmic anaesthetics for the purpose of measuring a patient's intra-ocular pressure; and
b) topical ophthalmic cycloplegics and mydriatics for the purpose of dilation and to facilitate examination of the eye.
An optometrist who holds a therapeutic drug certificate may administer and prescribe the following pharmaceutical agents for the diagnosis and treatment of ocular anterior segment disorders:
a) mydriatics; b) cycloplegics; c) topical local ophthalmic anaesthetics; d) topical ophthalmic non-steroidal anti-allergy medications; e) topical ophthalmic non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications; and f) topical ophthalmic anti-infective medications.
An optometrist who holds a therapeutic drug certificate may administer and prescribe the following pharmaceutical agents for the diagnosis and treatment of conditions of the ocular surface and adnexa where there is no corneal ulceration:
a) topical ocular corticosteroids; and b) topical ocular anti-infective corticosteroid combinations.
NLAO Membership As of January 1, 2014, there are 61 practicing optometrists in Newfoundland and Labrador.
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License Requirements A person may apply for a licence to practise optometry where he or she
a) has the academic qualifications set in the regulations and has passed the examination that may be required by the regulations;
b) has a working knowledge of the English language sufficient to enable the person to practise optometry in the province; and
c) produces evidence of satisfactory character that is acceptable to the board. An application shall be directed to the registrar who shall determine whether the applicant meets the requirements or whether further examination is required. The board shall issue to an applicant who meets the qualifications in the section above, a licence to practise optometry where he or she
a) pays the licence fee set by the board; b) pays outstanding fines, penalties or fees, which are owed to the board; c) establishes that he or she is not suspended or restricted with respect to the
practise of optometry by a licensing board or equivalent body governing the practise of optometry in a jurisdiction outside the province;
d) provides proof that he or she has obtained professional liability insurance coverage in a form and amount satisfactory to the board; and
e) satisfies other requirements that may be set by the board in the regulations. • A person who is issued a licence under this section shall within 30 days of the
date the licence is issued, become a member of the association and the failure of that person to do so makes the licence void upon the expiry of the 30 days.
• A licence issued under this section shall, unless cancelled or suspended by the board, expire at midnight on December 31 of the calendar year for which it is issued.
In addition to the requirements above, an applicant for a licence to practise optometry shall:
a) complete an application in the form provided by the council; b) submit
(i) satisfactory proof of graduation in a course in optometry from the School of Optometry, University of Waterloo or Universite de Montreal or another Canadian school of optometry approved by the council,
(ii) satisfactory proof of graduation in a course in optometry from another school of optometry considered by the council, at the time of graduation and application, to be comparable to the standards of the institutions referred to in subparagraph (i), or
(iii) satisfactory proof that he or she is or was engaged in the practice of optometry in another Canadian jurisdiction and is in good standing with the licensing body in that jurisdiction;
c) submit evidence satisfactory to the council that the applicant has not been convicted of professional misconduct in a jurisdiction where an applicant is or was engaged in the practice of optometry;
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d) submit evidence satisfactory to the council that there are no current proceedings against the applicant for professional misconduct in a jurisdiction where the applicant is or was engaged in the practice of optometry;
e) submit evidence satisfactory to the council that he or she is a Canadian citizen, holds an employment visa or has permanent resident status under the Immigration Act (Canada);
f) submit a current certificate of good conduct from the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police or other appropriate policing agency;
g) successfully complete the examinations set or approved by the council; and h) pay any fees set by the council.
Student Members A person may apply to be registered as a student with the college. The college shall register a student where:
a) he or she is enrolled in a professional optometry school that is acceptable to the council and which requires that the student complete an external placement;
b) the registrar has approved the student's placement; and c) he or she pays the fee set by the council.
• Registration of student confers upon the student the right to perform tasks within the scope of practice of an optometrist, but only under the direct supervision of a practitioner.
• External placements shall only be completed by students registered with the college.
Continuing Education Requirements Continuing Education Requirements are on a 3-year cycle. The current cycle is from January 1, 2014 to December 31, 2016. Provincial Insurance Coverage Coverage was fully de-insured in 1991.
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Contact Newfoundland and Labrador College of Optometrists Box 23085, Churchill Park RPO St. John’s, NL A1B 4J9 Telephone: (709) 368-2052 Fax: (709) 368-9602 Website: https://nlco.ca E-Mail: [email protected] Newfoundland & Labrador Association of Optometrists PO Box 8042 St. John’s, NL A1B 3M7 Telephone: (709) 739-8284 Fax: (709) 739-8378 Email: [email protected]
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Scope of practice
An optometrist who has been designated under the Act as qualified to prescribe therapeutic pharmaceutical agents, may:
a) prescribe and administer the following topical therapeutic medications in the treatment of ocular disorders:
i. mydriatics; ii. cycloplegics;
iii. miotics; iv. non-steroidal, anti-allergy medications; v. non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications;
vi. corticosteroids; vii. anti-infective medications;
viii. steroidal, anti-infective medications; and ix. in a consultative, co-management arrangement with an
ophthalmologist who is licensed to practise in Canada, oral corticosteroids, oral anti-glaucoma and antiglaucoma medications;
b) remove superficial foreign bodies from the eye; c) use for diagnostic testing drugs that are in the following categories:
i. local anaesthetics; ii. mydriatics;
iii. cycloplegics; iv. miotics; v. non-prescription drugs.
License Requirements
1) An individual is entitled to be registered as an optometrist under this Act if the individual
a) holds a certificate as an optometrist issued by a regulatory authority in another Canadian jurisdiction that is a party to the Agreement on Internal Trade; and
b) is in good standing with the regulatory authority that issued the certificate. 2) If the certificate held by an individual who relies on subsection (1) for
registration contains a practice limitation, restriction or condition, the Minister may impose a similar or equivalent practice limitation, restriction or condition on the registration of the individual under this Act.
3) If the Minister considers it necessary to protect the public interest as a result of complaints or disciplinary or criminal proceedings in any other jurisdiction relating to the competency, conduct or character of an individual who applies for registration under subsection (1), the Minister may
a) impose terms, conditions or restrictions on the individual’s ability to practise; or
b) refuse to register the individual. 4) The Minister may impose additional training, experience, examinations or
assessments as a condition of registration where an individual who applies for
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registration has not practised as an optometrist within the period of two years immediately preceding the date when his or her application is received by the Minister.
5) An individual to whom subsection (1) does not apply is entitled to be registered in the register if the individual has passed the prescribed examination within the period of two years immediately preceding the date when the individual’s application is received by the Minister and the individual
a) is a graduate of a school of optometry accredited by the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education; or
b) is a graduate of a non-accredited school of optometry and has successfully completed the International Optometric Bridging Program.
6) Despite subsections (1) and (5), an individual is not entitled to be registered in the register until the individual has paid the prescribed registration fee. S.Y. 2010, c.4, s.13; S.Y. 2002, c.164, s.3
Practice Locations There are two optometry practices, with four registered optometrists in Whitehorse, YK.
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Contact Information Yukon Government, Community Services Professional Licensing and Regulatory Affairs P.O. box 2703 (C-5) Whitehorse, Yukon, Y1A 2C6 Email: [email protected]
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License Requirements
• Completed application, photograph attached. • Certified true copy of optometry degree from a recognized school of optometry
in Canada. • Photocopy of successful completion of Canadian Standard Assessment in
Optometry (CSAO). • Certificate of Good Standing from each jurisdiction applicant is/has been
licensed. Note: To be eligible to be licensed in the NWT, current unrestricted registration in a province of Canada is required.
• Three (3) letters of reference, sent directly to the Registrar from the referee. Reference forms supplied with the application package.
• Up-to-date resume. • Photocopy of birth certificate or citizenship document (if Canadian citizen); or
valid immigration or work permit (if not a Canadian citizen).
Fees • Registration $100 • Annual License $150 • $ 250 to be included with application Note: all licenses expire March 31st following date of issue, and are renewable. Practice Locations There currently are no practicing optometrists in the Northwest Territories. Contact Information Office of the Registrar of Professional Licensing Corporate Planning, Reporting and Evaluation Department of Health and Social Services Government of the Northwest Territories P.O. Box 1320, Yellowknife, NT, X1A 2L9 Telephone: 1-867-920-8058 Fax: 1-867-873-0484 Email: [email protected]
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Licensing Requirements 1. Proof of identification in the form of
• photocopy of birth certificate • photocopy of change of name documents or immigration papers if
appropriate • signed photo identification attached to the application form, verification
of registration and employer references 2. Statutory Declaration completed in full, dated and signed
• all photo identification must be signed by applicant 3. Application form completed in full, signed and dated
• signed photo identification attached 4. Proof of graduation from a college of optometry
• official transcript of marks from educational institute or certified photocopy of degree
5. Current resume 6. Proof of an acceptable score on the Canadian Standard Assessment in Optometry (CSAO) examination 7. Three positive and endorsing professional references from colleagues and/or supervisors who have worked with you in the past 3 years
• signed photo identification attached to each reference • complete Part 1 in full and forward to referee
8. Verification of Registration for the jurisdiction where you are currently registered and licensed
• complete Part 1 in full and forward to the regulatory body • signed photo identification attached to the form
9. Registration fee of $100.00 and license fee of $150.00 for a total of $250.00
• cheque or money order payable to the Government of Nunavut Note: license expires March 31st and is renewable annually. Practice Locations There currently are no practice locations in Nunavut.
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Contact Information Coordinator, Professional Licensing Department of Health Government of Nunavut Box 390, Kugluktuk, Nunavut X0B 0E0 Telephone: (867) 982-7668 Fax: (867) 982-3256 Email: [email protected]
