The Ontario Association of Optometrists has paused its job action, resuming OHIP-funded eye care services for patients aged 65 and older.
Ontario optometrists have resumed eye care services for patients over the age of 65 and youths aged 19 and younger, as well individuals with pre-existing conditions.
Members of the Ontario Association of Optometrists (OAO) recently announced a return to the negotiation table with Ontario’s Ministry of Health to discuss service fee increases which have been stagnant for 30 years.
“Ontarians covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) for their eye care — from youth to seniors — had been without routine eye care for nearly three months, and this could not continue,” said Federal Retirees president Jean-Guy Soulière. “We are relieved that negotiations have resumed and hope that both parties will find a fair deal and a way forward for the sake of OHIP-insured patients who need this care.”
The job action began Sept. 1, when optometrists started cancelling and declining appointments for routine eye care with OHIP-insured patients, including residents aged 65 and older, 19 and under and individuals with specific health conditions, like diabetes.
During the optometrists’ job action, Federal Retirees advocated for a return to negotiation and resumption of service for affected patients — most recently with a request to meet with Ontario Premier Doug Ford and health minister Christine Elliott.
Federal Retirees CEO Anthony Pizzino also met virtually in October with the OAO president, Dr. Sheldon Salaba, and his staff to understand their perspective on chronically underfunded eye care services in Ontario.