News

COVID-19: May 12th Update

May 12, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic and resulting state of emergency here in British Columbia has been a challenge for us all, and the disruption caused by this, is one we will all remember. Registrants have weathered the storm as best they could, and we recognize the eagerness to return to caring for British Columbians. We were all […]

2019 Annual Report

May 7, 2020

The 2019 Annual Report & Audited Financial Statements is now available here.

COVID-19 Update From The Registrar

May 1, 2020

As we turn another calendar page, we realize that it has been a long time since we have been able to provide routine care to all our patients, who come into our practice for their eye care needs. This week, the provincial government extended the state of emergency, and we continue to provide urgent and […]

COVID-19: Important update from the Registrar

April 22, 2020

On March 23, 2020, Dr. Bonnie Henry, the Provincial Health Officer addressed all regulated health professionals in BC, regarding the provision of healthcare services. Healthcare professionals were asked to limit the delivery of in-person services in community settings, and this message remains current despite the recent mentioning of lifting some of these measures at a future date. […]

Important COVID-19 websites

April 7, 2020

The College is continuing to ensure all our registrants are provided with the most up-to-date information related to COVID-19. There are numerous sources for information; below are the key websites that registrants should look to for COVID-19 information. BCCDC: http://covid-19.bccdc.ca/ PHO: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-provincial-health-officer/current-health-topics/covid-19-novel-coronavirus BC Government News: https://news.gov.bc.ca/ Personal protective equipment (PPE) is now being managed by a provincial supply […]

COVID-19 and Conjunctivitis

April 6, 2020

We hope you and your loved ones are staying safe and well. It has been a challenging several weeks for all. We applaud the efforts and changes you have all made, as we all must continue doing our valuable part, through this global pandemic. Please follow the link, as it contains important information […]

Newly Announced Teleoptometry Fee Codes

April 2, 2020

Urgent COVID-19 Information for Optometrists – Teleoptometry Fee Codes EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY The Ministry of Health has established two new temporary fee items to enable registrants to provide virtual care through video conferencing during COVID-19. The temporary new codes are part of the overall plan to ensure optimal use of healthcare resources, and improve patient flow […]

Essential Services Designation in British Columbia

March 27, 2020

BCDO has confirmed with the Ministry of Health that Optometry is an “essential service” by virtue of the legislative identification of a health profession as defined in the Health Professions Act. The news release issued on March 26, 2020 states “all health care services, including…”, and the Ministry notes that although the “including” and “example” section […]

BCCDC/Ministry of Health: COVID-19 – Unproven Therapies Recommendations

March 26, 2020

While some of you may have already seen this, I want to make sure that you are all aware of a recent posting by the Clinical Reference Group. This group is situated under the planning arm of the provincial Health Emergency Coordination Centre (HECC), to provide clinical advice and guidance related to COVID-19. Last […]

Questions and Answers about the Provincial Health Officer’s March 23, 2020 Update for Regulated Health Professionals

March 25, 2020

Questions and Answers about the Provincial Health Officer’s March 23, 2020 Update for Regulated Health Professionals The College of Optometrists of BC (the “College”), along with other colleges, have compiled questions and answers about Provincial Health Officer (PHO) Dr. Bonnie Henry’s March 23, 2020 update for regulated health professionals. What does this update from the […]