Optometrists in Ontario are poised to withdraw services covered by provincial health insurance beginning today, following a breakdown in talks with the government.
The Ontario Association of Optometrists says it’s aware of the inconvenience to patients but argues the government has left it with no other choice.
The provincial health plan covers annual eye exams for youth aged 19 and under, seniors aged 65 and older, and for people with specific health conditions.
The optometrist group has argued its members are underfunded for services and are absorbing about 45% of eye exam costs.
The province says it has put forward a fair and reasonable plan but the optometrists said no to mediation over the weekend.
