Parliament Approves Motion — Cosmetic Contact Lenses

The Canadian Association of Optometrists is very pleased to announce that Motion M-409 was passed unanimously in Parliament on March 7, 2008. Presented by MP Pat Davidson (Sarnia-Lampton), the Motion read: That, in the opinion of the House, the Minister of Health should regulate non-corrective, cosmetic contact lenses as medical devices under the Hazardous Product Act or the Food and Drugs Act. Read the News Release and Fact Sheet.

Update on Bill C-51

On April 24, 2008, CAO met with the Progressive Licensing Project, Therapeutic Products Directorate, Health Canada to learn about the project and Bill C-51 (Amendments to the Food and Drug Act). Bill C-51, if passed, would have significant implications on the regulation of Food and Drugs in Canada. Some highlights for Optometry:

• All contact lenses (including cosmetic) would be treated as medical devices;
• Definition of Practitioner: optometrists were excluded previously. The Bill now defines practitioner as an individual licensed by a province to prescribe or dispense prescription therapeutic products;
• There are several provisions that could impact internet companies that sell drugs and medical devices to Canadians. There are strong enforcement provisions;
• Mandatory adverse reaction reporting only applies to “health care institutions”.

CAO will monitor the legislation as it moves through Parliament. You may do so as well at the following link: www.parl.gc.ca/legisinfo/index.asp?Language=E&Session=15&query=5420&List=toc

CAO expects to be consulted further as Bill 51 is debated, amended and implemented.

FDA Guidance on Decroative Contact Lenses – Nov. 2006
Common position of Canadian eye care groups
CAO Strategy for Private Member’s Bill