The Opticians Association of Canada (OAC) acknowledges the recent announcement by Blue Cross regarding their new provider partnership with KITS EYECARE, an online retailer of glasses and contact lenses. While the appeal of convenience and potential cost savings for consumers is understandable, the OAC believes it is essential to address concerns and emphasize the critical importance of professional oversight in vision care.
This trend, although not new, has become increasingly popular as a marketing tool, encouraging vision care consumers to seek services without the oversight of a licensed optician.
The OAC’s primary concern with online eyewear providers, including KITS EYECARE, is the uncertainty surrounding the involvement of licensed opticians in their dispensing processes. While some online retailers do employ licensed opticians, and the OAC supports this practice, the OAC urges consumers to verify this involvement when considering online purchases.
In Canada, opticians are regulated healthcare professionals in every province. They undergo rigorous education and training to ensure the safety and accuracy of vision care. The involvement of licensed opticians provides consumers with accountability, quality, and protection. Their role is vital in the following areas:
Key Responsibilities of Licensed Opticians:
1. Accurate Prescription Interpretation and Dispensing:
Ensuring the correct lenses are chosen and accurately crafted to meet each individual prescription. In all provinces except British Columbia, the dispensing of eyeglasses and contact lenses is a restricted activity, legally requiring the involvement of a licensed professional.
2. Precise Measurements and Fitting:
Taking key facial and ocular measurements—such as pupillary distance and optical center height—to ensure lenses are properly aligned and fit comfortably. Incorrect measurements can result in eye strain, headaches, and other visual discomforts.
3. Personalized Frame and Lens Selection:
Helping consumers select frame styles, lens materials, and coatings that best suit their lifestyle, visual needs, and facial anatomy.
4. Troubleshooting and Adjustments:
Providing aftercare such as adjustments and resolving any issues with new eyewear, ensuring optimal comfort and function.
5. Adherence to Health and Safety Standards:
All eyewear dispensed in Canada is classified as a medical device. Licensed opticians ensure that all products meet Health Canada’s and provincial regulators’ strict safety and quality standards.
Licensed opticians also play a valuable role in recognizing potential signs of underlying eye health issues. While they do not diagnose or treat eye diseases, their training enables them to identify indicators that may require referral to an optometrist or ophthalmologist— ensuring a collaborative, patient-first approach to care.
By contrast, online platforms often rely on self-measurement tools and virtual try-ons, which—although convenient—cannot fully replicate the precision and personalized service of in-person care by a licensed professional.
The OAC has long advocated for the essential role of opticians in safeguarding the public’s vision health. Improperly fitted or inaccurately prescribed eyewear can cause significant discomfort and health issues.
While Blue Cross customers may find the convenience of KITS EYECARE and similar online providers appealing, the Opticians Association of Canada strongly advises the public to prioritize the expertise of a licensed optician for all eyewear needs. Your vision is a precious asset—and its care deserves the attention of a trained, regulated professional.
The OAC encourages Blue Cross customers to ask KITS EYECARE directly about their dispensing practices and the extent of licensed optician involvement.
The OAC remains committed to promoting the highest standards of opticianry in Canada and ensuring that Canadians receive safe, accurate, and personalized vision care.
By circumventing the services of licensed opticians—especially in provinces where dispensing is legally restricted—British Columbia may fall behind in offering the same standard of care available in the rest of the country, potentially compromising public eye health.