NDP Government Blocks U.S.-Trained Canadian Optometrists from Returning to Work in B.C.
“Instead of cutting red tape, the government is piling on new barriers that prevent highly trained Canadians from coming home to work. The result? More delays for patients and fewer professionals on the frontlines of eye care.”
-Lawrence Mok, MLA for Maple Ridge East and Critic for Skills Training and International Credentials
Victoria, BC – The Official Opposition is calling out the NDP government for making it harder, not easier, for Canadian optometry students trained or currently studying in the United States to return to British Columbia and serve patients.
Effective March 12, 2025, the College of Health and Care Professionals of B.C., under the oversight of the NDP government, announced it would no longer accept the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) exam for licensing purposes. This decision effectively bars dozens of Canadian students enrolled in accredited U.S. optometry programs from practicing in B.C., despite having met long-standing standards that were accepted for decades.
Sharon Hartwell, MLA for Bulkley Valley-Stikine and Critic for Rural Development and Rural Communities, noted: “This Government says they want to poach American doctors and healthcare workers from the U.S., but they are making it difficult even for Canadian optometry students studying abroad to come back and serve British Columbians, just another blow to rural communities suffered by this NDP government.”
“This is a deliberate policy failure by the NDP government,” said Lawrence Mok, MLA for Maple Ridge East and Critic for Skills Training and International Credentials. “Instead of cutting red tape, the government is piling on new barriers that prevent highly trained Canadians from coming home to work. The result? More delays for patients and fewer professionals on the frontlines of eye care.”
Canada only has two optometry schools. For years, Canadians have trained in the U.S. and returned home to serve their communities, taking the NBEO exam, which has been a recognized standard. That pathway has now been abruptly cut off with no explanation, no transition plan, and no consideration for the students impacted.
“There has never been a problem with this system, until now. Are American eyes any different than Canadian eyes?” said MLA Hartwell. “This change was sprung on students, families, and British Columbians. The professionals weren’t consulted properly. This will just compound the challenges rural communities have in attracting doctors and medical specialists.”
The Opposition is demanding that the Minister of Health release:
- Any review or evidence justifying the decision to reject the NBEO exam;
- The number of students directly impacted by this decision; and
- What, if any, transition supports were offered to help these students navigate the change.
“This government talks about attracting healthcare workers—but its actions tell a different story,” said MLA Mok. “At a time when British Columbians are waiting longer than ever for care, the NDP is actively driving skilled Canadians away.”
-30-
Media Contact: [email protected]
Do you like this page?
