Optometrists in Newfoundland and Labrador have the narrowest scope of practice in all of North America and the local Association of Optometrists is working to change that.

Dr. Trudy Metcalfe is a local optometrist and former president of the association.

She applauds the adoption of the ‘Eye See, I Learn’ program that covers an eye exam, and glasses—if needed—for children not covered by insurance just before they start Kindergarten.

Metcalfe says optometrists are now lobbying to exercise their full scope of practice and take some of the burden off the health care system.

She says optometrists in other provinces are treating things like glaucoma, and booking medically-necessary visits.