Third party managed care plans also known as preferred provider networks are not new to concept to health professions in Canada. CAO has serious concerns with the influence of managed care plans on the practice of Optometry. The following information on managed care is designed to assist CAO members to make informed business decisions in the best interest of their practice, their patients and their profession.
The Council of the Canadian Association of Optometrists (CAO) initiated a strategic planning process in the spring of 2013 following the hiring of a new Executive Director. Extensive information was gathered from members and stakeholders to inform the retreat-based process. Oversight to the process was provided by a task force comprised of Council and provincial association chair members, led by the current President.
Vision is the most important of all human senses. The public expects that their vision appliances (eye glasses and contact lenses) will provide them with the best vision possible. They also expect that a qualified and regulated professional will assure that they receive optimum care. Moreover, provincial regulatory authorities require that Doctors of Optometry are accountable and meet standards of care.
An evidenced based review conducted by the Health Professions Regulatory Advisory Council in Ontario determined that the dispensing of eye wear should remain a regulated act. The decision to recommend continued regulation was based on the fact that there is a risk of harm from the unregulated sale of contact lenses and eye glasses.
An evidenced based review conducted by the Health Professions Regulatory Advisory Council in Ontario determined that the dispensing of eye wear should remain a regulated act. The decision to recommend continued regulation was based on the fact that there is a risk of harm from the unregulated sale of contact lenses and eye glasses.
Vision disorders are a common pediatric health problem in Canada. It is estimated that nearly 25% of school-age children have vision problems.1,2 Despite the economic, social and health care advances that have occurred in our society, many preschool and school-age children are not receiving adequate professional eye and vision care.
Act bring the CAO into being
Proclamation to be given to local government to celebrate Children's Vision Mnnth
Current demographic trends indicate that more and more Canadians are suffering from vision loss that cannot be corrected with glasses or medical or surgical interventions, and is severe enough to interfere with daily tasks. Optometrists play a key role in providing low vision services, and may do so as part of an interdisciplinary team of health care providers working together to meet patient needs.
CAO Position Statement on Colour Vision Deficiency and Specialty Tinted Lenses