Eye surgeons balk at Alberta’s plan to expand scope of duties for optometrists
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EDMONTON – Groups representing eye surgeons in Canada and Alberta are calling on the province to reverse a decision to let optometrists do some minor surgeries.
The Canadian Ophthalmological Society, the Eye Physicians and Surgeons Association of Alberta and the Alberta Medical Association’s ophthalmology section say it’s a matter of patient safety.
They say even minor procedures require careful selection of patients and the ability to recognize and react to complications.
The office for Justin Wright, Alberta’s primary health minister, says they will move ahead despite those concerns.
The province says new training and safety standards will be in place.
Starting this month, optometrists can perform minor surgical and laser procedures to treat things like glaucoma, benign skin lesions and styes.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 4, 2026.