EDMONTON (RAJEEV SHARMA): Alberta is set to become the first province in Canada to expand the scope of optometric care, allowing specially trained optometrists to perform certain minor surgical and laser procedures in their offices starting November 1.
The regulatory changes will permit qualified optometrists who complete additional training to provide services such as removing benign skin lesions, treating styes and carrying out specific laser procedures. The move is intended to improve access to eye care and reduce the need for patients to travel to other facilities for eligible treatments.
Under the new rules, patients may benefit from fewer referrals, reduced waiting times and more treatment options through community-based clinics.
Government Aims to Improve Access to Eye Care
Alberta’s government says the expanded services will help patients receive appropriate treatment closer to home, particularly those living in rural and remote communities where specialist care can involve long journeys and extended waits.
Minister of Primary and Preventative Health Services Justin Wright said the changes would give residents more options while maintaining patient safety as a central priority.
“Albertans deserve timely access to the care they need,” Wright said, adding that qualified health professionals should be able to provide appropriate services closer to the communities they serve.
The government expects the changes to reduce unnecessary barriers and make it easier for eligible patients to access certain procedures without being referred elsewhere.
Additional Training and Oversight Required
The expanded responsibilities will not apply automatically to every optometrist. Practitioners must complete the required additional training and follow new standards of practice, with oversight from the Alberta College of Optometrists.
Dr. Sophia Leung, president of the Alberta Association of Optometrists, welcomed the changes, saying optometrists have the expertise to provide the procedures safely when appropriately trained.
Leung described the decision as a significant development for the profession and for patients seeking timely treatment.
Changes Expected to Ease Pressure on Specialists
The province also expects the expanded scope of practice to strengthen overall health system capacity. By allowing trained optometrists to handle certain procedures, ophthalmologists may be able to dedicate more time to patients with complex eye conditions requiring specialist care.
Dr. Michelle Duke, president of the Alberta College of Optometrists, said the changes followed years of collaboration between the college and the provincial government to modernize eye care delivery.
She added that regulatory oversight would remain in place as services expand into community clinics, with the goal of improving access, reducing delays and supporting better patient outcomes.
New Approach to Community-Based Health Services
The changes reflect Alberta’s broader approach of making greater use of the skills of existing health professionals rather than relying solely on additional facilities or administrative structures.
Beginning November 1, eligible patients will have access to the newly authorised procedures through optometrists who meet the required training and regulatory standards.
The province says the expansion is intended to make eye care more accessible while ensuring patients receive treatment from appropriately qualified professionals.
