Page 24 - envision-01-2023

ASSOCIATION

Versus

REGULATOR:

The OAC Explains

Interview
By Evra Taylor

he Opticians Association of Canada (OAC) represents approximately
4,500 licensed opticians in Canada. Through stakeholder feedback and
direct polling of Canadian opticians, the Association became aware that
Tthere was a need to create a better understanding of the roles of regulators/
colleges and the OAC. In response, it recently launched a video entitled “Regulator
or Association: Who Does What?” explaining the distinction between the two
bodies.
Robert Dalton, executive director of The OAC represents and supports
the OAC, explains: “Our goal was to opticians, and it is not accountable to
design content that nurtured a deeper the public or government. It administers
understanding of the OAC and what continuing medical education (CME)
we do. Some opticians have a closer programs and provides opticians with
relationship with one organization or learning opportunities.
another. They might volunteer with a
regulatory body or support the OAC’s On the other hand, the role of
activities, for example. We found provincial regulators is to ensure the
that there is considerable confusion safety of the public. They accomplish
regarding the official role of the OAC. this by regulating opticians, upholding
This video helps to clear that up in a legislation, and ensuring best practices
short but concise format.” and ethics. In addition, regulators offer
[ Robert Dalton, executive director of the OAC ]

22 / JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2023 / www.ENVISIONMAGAZINE.ca /