New amendment allows BC optometrists treat glaucoma

In a move that will make the treatment of glaucoma easier and more efficient in British Columbia, BC Doctors of Optometry will now be able to prescribe medications for the treatment of glaucoma. The addition to the Amendments to the Optometrists Regulation started to take effect on August 2, 2012. Prior to this move, it wasn't uncommon for a patient to need to travel over one thousand kilometers to receive treatment for glaucoma.

Dr. Surginder Sahora, the president of the British Columbia Association of Optometrists (BCAO), commented on the change,

"By allowing Doctors of Optometry to prescribe anti-glaucoma medications, patients will have greater access to timely and appropriate eye care in all areas of the province. Doctors of Optometry are educated and certified to diagnose and to prescribe treatment for glaucoma. The recent changes allow them to practice what they are already certified to do."

For more information on the BC authorization to treat glaucoma, read the full press release.

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