About BCAO
The British Columbia Association of Optometrists (BCAO) is a non-profit professional association representing optometrists working in 94 communities across B.C. Optometrists specialize in examining, diagnosing, treating, managing and preventing diseases and disorders of the visual system, the eye and related structure. They also prescribe medications to treat certain eye conditions, such as infections, inflammations, allergies and injuries.
The British Columbia Association of Optometrists is dedicated to advancing the successful practice of optometry by its members in accordance with the highest standard of patient care, and is the vigilant voice on issues affecting the eye health of all British Columbians.
Outreach
We strive to raise public awareness about the importance of eye health through public service announcements, news releases, community health fairs and more. One of our most successful campaigns is the award-winning a-b-See program, launched in 2003, an awareness program for parents, teachers and children about the importance of regular eye exams and lifelong good eye health practices. Each year, we reach millions of British Columbians through our awareness efforts.
Advocacy
One of BCAO’s most vital roles is as an advocate for our members. We negotiate and advocate on behalf of our members to help define health care policy as it relates to vision and eye health. We also advocate for members on health profession regulation in terms of its impact on professional standards and your business interests. We actively lobby at both the provincial and federal levels to ensure your voice is heard by the politicians, policy- and law-makers whose decisions impact your business.
Excellence
We support member optometrists in achieving professional excellence by providing them with information, resources and a formal continuing education program which allows them to enhance their knowledge and skills and stay current with advances in the profession.
For parents, children, adults of all ages, employers and workers, BCAO is a trusted resource for eye health information, and a champion for quality care. To us, nothing could be more important than your eye health.
