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BCAO’s continuing education (CE) program is designed to provide B.C. Doctors of Optometry with relevant, quality education that enhances their practice and supports them in maintaining the highest standards of care.

BCAO organizes a three-day Continuing Education Seminar (CES) in Vancouver each spring, known as BCAO's annual Conference and OPTOFAIR. Top-quality speakers from across North America provide optometric education for both Doctors of Optometry and their staff. The CES, generally held in February/March, is well attended by optometrists and optometric staff from across the province.

In conjunction with the CES, BCAO also co-ordinates OPTOFAIR, the premier ophthalmic trade show in Western Canada. Exhibitors are invited to showcase the newest in optometric equipment, contact lenses and frames, providing optometrists with one-stop shopping for their offices.

The BCAO offers optometrists additional education opportunities and CE credits at the fall symposium and at local/regional meetings throughout the year.

Newly graduated BCAO members receive a 50% discount on the CES registration fees in their first, full year of practice.

BCAO supports optometrists through a Continuing Education Fund, established with funds received from the provincial government under an agreement signed in 2009. The fund encourages optometrists to maintain and enhance their skills through continuing education by financially assisting them with the costs. The Fund provides financial assistance for courses and events which have a continuing optometric education purpose and which have been approved by the BCAO. The Fund will disburse financial assistance to eligible Doctors of Optometry through 2013.

A list of CE opportunities and an application for funding is available.