Business Details
35 Years
experience
Regulatory Body for Opticians in Ontario
The College of Opticians of Ontario was established in 1991 under the Regulated Health Professions Act to protect the public by regulating opticianry in Ontario. We ensure high standards of practice and professionalism through registration, certification, and enforcement of ethical guidelines. Our duties include issuing certificates of registration, resolving complaints, and promoting continuing competence via quality assurance programs. We uphold transparency, accountability, and equity in all decisions, fostering trust through respectful interactions with patients, registrants, and stakeholders.Our mission emphasizes public safety, while our vision aims to deliver the highest standard of vision care across Ontario. The College operates with a structured governance model, including a board of directors and committees, to maintain industry-specific standards and address evolving professional needs.
Services
Registration Services
Complaints Handling
Quality Assurance
Continuing Education
Practice Advice
Details
- Year established: 1991
Services
Registration Services
We issue certificates of registration for opticians, interns, and students, ensuring compliance with the Regulated Health Professions Act. Our process includes evaluating accredited and unaccredited education applicants, labor mobility cases, and examination requirements. Registrants must adhere to ongoing renewal and professional standards.
Complaints Handling
The College investigates complaints through the Inquiries, Complaints and Reports Committee (ICRC), ensuring transparency and fairness. Outcomes may include remedial training, oral cautions, or referrals to the Discipline Committee. All proceedings maintain confidentiality while upholding public accountability.
Quality Assurance
Our quality assurance program promotes continuing competence through peer assessments, practice advice, and continuing education. We monitor adherence to standards of practice and address fitness-to-practice concerns to maintain public trust in opticianry services.
Continuing Education
We provide free on-demand courses, jurisprudence training, and mentorship programs like the Contact Lens Mentor Certificate. These resources ensure registrants meet evolving professional standards and legislative requirements for ongoing practice.
Practice Advice
The College offers individualized practice advice on regulatory compliance, scope of practice, and workplace issues. Our Practice Advisor helps registrants navigate standards, patient interactions, and legal obligations under the Opticianry Act.
People
Fazal Khan
Registrar
Fazal Khan oversees regulatory matters and stakeholder relations as Registrar, ensuring compliance with the Regulated Health Professions Act and fostering collaboration with industry partners.
Amy Stein
Deputy Registrar
Amy Stein manages finance and operations, supporting the College's administrative functions and strategic initiatives to enhance regulatory efficiency and public accountability.
Questions
What is the College of Opticians of Ontario's role?
We regulate opticianry in Ontario to protect the public by ensuring registrants meet professional standards and legislative requirements.
How do I file a complaint against an optician?
Submit a formal complaint through our website or contact the Professional Conduct department for investigation by the ICRC.
Can I access my personal health records from an optician?
Yes, under PHIPA, patients have the right to access their personal health information held by opticians.
What are the requirements to become a registered optician?
Complete accredited education, pass exams, submit an application, and meet ongoing renewal and continuing education obligations.
Does the College handle business licensing for optical dispensaries?
No, we regulate individual opticians, not businesses. Owners must ensure compliance with provincial laws and mandatory reporting.
