New regulations will enable optometrists to provide laser procedures and lid lesion removal, improving access to timely eye care across the province
On October 26, 2026, the Government of Alberta announced new regulations that will expand optometrists' scope of practice to include lid lesion removal and laser procedures, effective November 1, 2026. The University of Waterloo School of Optometry and Vision Science welcomes and supports this proposal, as it increases access to care for patients.
"Optometrist-delivered lid lesion removal and laser care leverage the full capabilities of optometrists and provide patients with another option for receiving care from highly trained and accessible providers," says Dr. Ben Thompson, Director of the School of Optometry and Vision Science.
As healthcare systems face growing demand from aging populations and chronic eye conditions, provinces are turning to adopt proven, patient-centred, safe solutions that help patients receive care sooner. With more than 950 optometrists practicing in Alberta, these clinicians are well positioned to provide routine office-based procedures that reduce wait times, support earlier intervention and enable ophthalmologists to focus on complex surgical cases that requires their specialized expertise.
The new scope expansion includes minor laser procedures such as capsulotomy, peripheral iridotomy and selective laser trabeculoplasty, as well as certain injections and skin and eyelid procedures, including the removal of skin tags, warts and persistent styes. Recognizing the advanced clinical training optometrists already possess, these changes will enhance access to safe, timely and efficient patient care.
The University of Waterloo School of Optometry and Vision Science curriculum integrates biomedical and ocular sciences with progressive clinical training and adheres to the competencies listed in the American Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO) Framework for Developing Optometric Curriculum Guidelines and Educational Standards for Ophthalmic Surgery. All ACOE-accredited schools provide extensive didactic and clinical training in systemic disease, ocular disease, medical physiology, pharmacology, laser safety and basic surgical skills for straightforward office-based procedures such as lid lesion removal.
In addition to improving access to care, the scope expansion aims to reduce pressure on emergency departments and family physicians, particularly in rural, remote and Indigenous communities.
To maintain licensure, optometrists must also complete ongoing continuing education, ensuring that their clinical skills remain current, evidence-based and aligned with evolving standards of care. The School provides evidence-informed continuing education to optometrists and optometric staff that helps practitioners advance their skills and patient care. Learn more about our hybrid course designed specifically for office-based laser and minor surgical procedures for optometrists.
“We are excited for our students, alumni and other optometrists in the province of Alberta to be able to practice to their full scope, providing safe care to Albertans,” Dr. Thompson says. “We are also grateful for the leadership and advocacy of the Alberta College of Optometrists and the Canadian Association of Optometrists."