OAO Advocacy
Scope of Practice

Scope of Practice Current Status

Scope modernization is moving through formal government and regulatory channels.

OAO is working with the College of Optometrists of Ontario and the University of Waterloo to expand optometrists’ scope of practice. The Ontario government has now included optometry in its healthcare modernization initiative and directed regulatory colleges to develop frameworks for potential changes.

This is meaningful progress — but the proposed changes are not yet in effect.

Implementation details, timelines, training requirements and final approved elements have not yet been confirmed.

What OAO Is Seeking

Member priorities for scope modernization fall into three major areas:

Pharmaceutical Disease Management

  • Modernized prescribing authority
  • Independent management of open-angle glaucoma
  • Ability to sample and dispense certain prescription eye drops

Office-Based Procedures

  • Removal of superficial corneal foreign bodies below the epithelium
  • Selected minor eyelid procedures
  • Selected ocular laser procedures

Diagnostic Testing

  • Diagnostic ultrasound
  • Authority to order appropriate laboratory testing
  • Authority to order appropriate diagnostic imaging

Scope Modernization Timeline

  1. TODAY

    Working Toward Implementation

    OAO continues working with government and regulatory partners toward implementation.

  2. 2026

    Scope Modernization Advances

    The Ontario government identifies optometry as part of its healthcare scope modernization initiative.

  3. 2024

    Scope Changes Submitted

    Proposed scope changes are submitted to the Ministry of Health by OAO in collaboration with the College of Optometrists of Ontario and the University of Waterloo School of Optometry and Vision Science.

  4. 2017

    Drug Framework Expanded

    Additional drugs are added to Ontario’s designated drug framework.

  5. 2009 - 2011 Milestone

    Prescribing Authority Expanded

    Ontario approves expanded prescribing authority for therapeutic pharmaceutical agents.

  6. 1991

    Modern Regulatory Framework Established

    The Optometry Act, 1991 and Regulated Health Professions Act establish the modern regulatory framework for optometry.

  7. 1987

    Diagnostic Drug Authority

    Ontario optometrists gain authority to use diagnostic drugs during eye examinations.