The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
New legislation taking effect today allows Manitoba optometrists to prescribe and administer drugs to people with certain eye conditions. Until now, optometrists treating patients needing medication had to refer them to ophthalmologists or other doctors. 'The amendments will improve access to eye care and reduce wait times for treatment for patients,' said Health Minister Theresa Oswald. The change means qualified optometrists will be able to prescribe and administer certain drugs to treat eye infections, glaucoma, uveitis, dry eye and ocular allergies. As well, qualified optometrists can now work collaboratively with ophthalmologists in treatment of more serious eye disease. The changes, brought in under the Optometry Amendment Act, also expand the scope of practice of optometrists so they may remove superficial foreign bodies from the eye, and order and receive screening and diagnostic tests. The Manitoba Association of Optometrists supports the change. 'This is great news for our patients and everyone in Manitoba,' said Dr. Neil Campbell, president of MAO. 'Most of our members have been educated and trained to prescribe medications for years.' Optometrists provide about 80 per cent of all first contact, primary vision and eye health examinations in Manitoba. They are trained and licensed to examine and diagnose eye disorders and diseases, and provide and prescribe treatment, management and correction. _ Compiled from a Government of Manitoba news release
