History of the regulation of optometrists in B.C.
Optometry in BC became a self-regulating profession in 1921 and was regulated under the former Optometrists Act. On March 1, 2009, optometry was made a designated health profession under the Health Professions Act.
Optometrists were regulated by the College of Optometrists of BC, until June 28, 2024, when the College amalgamated with the College of Dietitians of BC, College of Occupational Therapists of BC, College of Opticians of BC, College of Physical Therapists of BC, College of Psychologists of BC, and College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC to form the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC.
Approximately 1,000 optometrists are registered in B.C.