April 7th, 2011. The Ontario Government approved a regulation today that allows Ontario’s optometrists to start prescribing medications for their patients. Optometrists will now be able to prescribe treatments for conditions ranging from routine bacterial eye infections to more serious diseases including glaucoma. The change will alleviate wait times in emergency rooms and walk-in clinics for patients with eye-related problems. While Ontario is one of the last provinces to en-act this regulation, the new regulation has the widest scope in Canada and brings about the most benefits to patients.  The decision by the Ontario government means better healthcare and shorter wait times for patients while reducing costs for taxpayers.  Eyes On Sheppard has always been committed to using the latest diagnostic equipment to examine our patients.  This legisltation now allows us to take patient care to the next level by providing the latest prescription treatment options.