KAWARTHA LAKES-Optometrists across Ontario are ready to stop providing eye care to kids, seniors and adults covered by OHIP if the Ontario government doesn’t come to the table for discussions on funding.
A hand-out being given to eye care patients as they leave the optometrist office says:
“All seniors, children’s and OHIP eye exams will end September 1”
In March, 96% of Ontario optometrists voted to withdraw OHIP services starting September 1, 2021 — unless the government agreed to legally-binding negotiations to fund these services at least to the cost of delivery. To date that has not happened.
The government now covers an average of 55 per cent of the cost of an OHIP-insured eye exam, leaving optometrists’ clinics to absorb the other 45 percent according to the Ontario Association of Optometrists. The association says with more than four million services delivered annually under OHIP and clinics under severe financial strain, the system is no longer sustainable.
“Government neglect has jeopardized access to eye care for those who need it most, undervaluing the eye health of Ontarians,” said Dr. Sheldon Salaba, President of the Ontario Association of Optometrists (OAO). “Optometrists are being fair and reasonable: we ask only that government commit to cover at least the cost of service delivery, and we’re giving them lots of notice to avoid any impact on patients.”
Routine eye care is critical in early detection of eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. The lack of funding makes it difficult to invest in modern technology. Newer technology means earlier detection according to the OAO.
Unlike other health care providers under OHIP, optometrists have never been given a formal negotiation process with the government. Despite multiple direct requests to the Minister of Health to address chronic underfunding, it has ignored the dire warnings from eye care stakeholders of an impending crisis.
“Vision is our most important sense, and our political leaders must help us protect it,” said Dr. Salaba. “After almost three years in office, it’s time for action from Premier Ford and Minister Elliott. They must ensure Ontarians continue to receive the quality eye care they depend on and deserve.”
It is illegal for Optometrists in Ontario to accept private insurance or direct payment for eye exams. The OAO says in 1989 the Ontario government paid $39.15 for an eye exam, today, 32 years later they pay an average of $44.65. The OAO says that doesn’t even come close to covering the costs of rent, staff, utilities, equipment, taxes and supplies, to provide an eye exam.
Concerned residents can sign a petition here:https://www.saveeyecare.ca
