An optometrist is an eye care professional who examines, diagnoses, and treats disorders and diseases of the eye.
Tips & Links
An optometrist is an eye care professional who examines, diagnoses, and treats changes in the aging eye such as cataracts and glaucoma. They are the first level of medically trained eye specialists.
Learn About
- Optometrists are regulated by the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC.
- Know that you do not need a referral to see an optometrist in a vision clinic.
- Learn more about specific changes and or diseases in your eye at Healthlink BC.
- It is recommended that you get an eye exam at least every 10 years if you are age (19 – 40 years), every 5 years (41 to 55 years), every 3 years (56 to 65 years), and every 2 years after 65 years of age by Healthlink BC.
Things to Do
- Prepare for an eye exam by taking all the eyeglasses you wear (including drugstore readers) and sunglasses, bringing sunglasses for driving home, and bringing your updated medication list (including any eye drops).
- Learn about what eye services are covered by medical services plan (MSP) including an annual eye exam for seniors over 65 years of age, trauma to the eye, or diseases such as diabetes that can impact vision as outlined by the Government of BC.
- Know that the medical services plan does not cover eyeglasses or contact lenses.
- Review your extended health benefits and/or supplementary benefits to help cover some costs.
- Know how to participate in your health care visits and record your health information or have your health advocate present to do this.
- Know about your patient rights including informed consent, privacy and confidentiality, and the right to refuse or accept care.
- Develop your self-advocacy skills to ensure your questions are answered and your needs and decisions are heard.
Add your Optometrist to your My Health Care & Business Professionals PDF tool found in My People. Include their contact information and any questions you have for them. Save to digital and print files.