Press The Pause Button (On The Job Action)
Blog Vol II. 30, Press The Pause Button II
Since September 1st, optometrists in Ontario have been in job action, withholding OHIP covered eye exams. That was paused on Tuesday, November 23 as the Ontario Association of Optometrists has finally entered into formal negotiations with the provincial government. Yeah!!!!!
It is really nice to see my long-time patients again and it is nice to have a full appointment book. It is our hope that, with the help of a mediator, the optometrists can bridge the funding gap that has built up over the past 32 years and lay the foundation for future rounds of talks. The deadline is January 31, 2022 for having an agreeable offer in place. The only problem for the rest of us is that a blackout is in effect during this process; nothing can be discussed outside of the ongoing meetings. Here is hoping that there is a meeting of minds and that a new contract can be ratified quickly.
At Burlington Eyecare we provide eye care to all people who seek it. We provide equal access to OHIP patients and private-pay patients, no blocking out OHIP patients or discriminating against them. Sadly, this practice has been happening in our profession, mostly out of financial necessity, as OHIP fees cover only a small portion of the costs of an eye exam (which is why the Association of Optometrists is currently in negotiations with the Ontario government). We want you to know that our mandate, and our pleasure!, is to take care of you, your eyes and your family’s eyes. Period.
Here is hoping for a quick and equitable resolution,
the good doctor, Dr. Mark Germain, Burlington Optometrist
