The University of Waterloo's School of Optometry and Vision Science is announcing a $1 million partnership with the Region of Waterloo, expanding community members' access to world-class eye and vision care through the new Waterloo Eye Institute.
Located within the University of Waterloo's School of Optometry and Vision Science, the new Waterloo Eye Institute will expand the delivery of essential eye and vision care, such as comprehensive eye exams, low vision rehabilitation services, dry eye disease treatment and myopia control, in 67,000 square feet of new and renovated space.
Already one of the largest vision care facilities in Canada, the University of Waterloo Optometry Clinic is open to all members of the public and currently averages over 28,000 patient interactions per year. With increased clinical capacity, the Waterloo Eye Institute aims to double the amount of comprehensive and specialized care delivered to patients of all ages and abilities annually - including access to care in areas of growing demand such as vision therapy, ocular disease, and concussion.
"When I'm asked to identify some of the differentiators that make our Region great, I often think of the School of Optometry and Vision Science," says Councillor Michael Harris. "Whether you're young, middle-aged, or a senior, people of all ages receive high-quality care at the University of Waterloo. And as one of the fastest-growing regions in Ontario, access to high-quality eye and vision care has never been more important."
In addition to enhanced access to care, the Waterloo Eye Institute will include the largest vision science research hub in North America, bringing together under one roof the University's expertise in imaging, artificial intelligence, vision science and brain health, to bring new treatments from the lab directly to patients. The Waterloo Eye Institute will also unveil a national tele-optometry centre, bridging critical access to eye and vision care for remote and Indigenous communities across the country.