Starting September 1st, Seniors, Children, and OHIP Insured Patients Lose Access to Care.
Optometrists across Ontario are driven by the singular goal of providing the best patient care possible. We diagnose and treat hundreds of ocular diseases while providing exceptional clarity of vision and optical products to all who need our help.
As things stand, Ontario optometrists are compensated for only half of what an OHIP-covered eye exam costs them to perform.
OHIP reimbursements haven’t increased in a meaningful way in over 30 years.
- In 1989, the Ontario government paid $39.15 for an eye exam and today, 32 years later, they pay an average of $44.65.
- Payments increased by about 9% yet inflation has increased since then by about 90%.
- Ontario is the lowest paid province compared to QC’s $106.90 and AB’s $137.02.
This amount does not come close to covering the cost (including rent, staff, utilities, equipment, taxes and supplies) to provide an eye exam.
As a consequence of this crisis, the Optometric Association of Ontario and all its members are now referring many services out to local family doctors, walk in clinics, and ophthalmologists.
Everyone in the province is encouraged to sign since we all know friends/family who benefit from OHIP.
Who does this affect?
- Seniors (65+)
- Children (19 and under)
- Adults with OHIP covered eye conditions
What If My Exam Is Scheduled During This Time?
Our staff will reach out to all OHIP patients who have an appointment scheduled on a weekly basis during the job action.
We will reschedule all OHIP patients at a later date and place them on a priority waiting list.
Who Can Have An Eye Exam?
Patients who are 20-64 and do not have OHIP coverage can still come to our practice for an eye exam.
All eye emergencies will be redirected to the proper care provider.
Can I Pay For My Eye Exam?
No. Provincial law restricts all OHIP insured patients to pay for services even with their own insurance.
Here’s What You Need To Do:
Reach out and make your voice heard!
Fill out the petition form through the Ontario Association of Optometrists.
Publicly reach out to the Minister of Health, the Hon. Christine Elliott. Contact her office by email and phone at: 416-327-4300
Publicly reach out to your local MPP for Oakville North-Burlington:
Effie Triantafilopoulos
Email: effie.triantafilopoulos@
Has The Government Responded At All?
Currently, the Government offered an 8.48% increase to offset our reimbursement rate to $51.00. Unfortunately, that’s still far below the reimbursement rate of every other province and not a sustainable model.
We have extended hours in the evening on alternating Tuesdays, please call to confirm. We are open on Saturdays for your convenience.