Health PEI has announced that primary eye care services by optometrists, including screening, diagnosis and treatment, are covered without a referral under the province’s health care system effective August 1, 2015.

In 2014-15 there were 543 emergency department visits for eye-related conditions, many of which could have been treated by an optometrist. The expanded coverage includes the costs associated with screening for diabetic retinopathy.

Dr. Jayne Toombs, President of the PEI Association of Optometrists, said, “We are excited to be collaborating with government and other health care professionals to enhance access to eye health services in our province.”

 Source:   http://www.healthpei.ca/index.php3?number=news&newsnumber=10315&dept=&lang=E