Future of Optometry in Canada

[ASA1]

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I've thinking about pursuing a career in optometry in Canada for some time now, but I'm somewhat concerned about the demand for and supply of optometrists in Canada. I was wondering if there are any currently practicing Canadian optometrists here who would be willing to answer a few of my questions. I apologize if these questions have been mentioned before in previous forums.

1) What is the job market like for new grads? What type of setting(s) (i.e. associates, commerical practices) do most new grads work in?

2) What is the usual range of starting salaries for new grads?

3) Do you enjoy what you do? If you had to choose over again, would you still have chosen this career?

4) What has your average annual salary been in the past few years? How long have you been working for as an optometrist and where (province and type of practice) do you work in?

I know this is a rather sensitive question, but I can't think of any other sources where I could get this info. There is such huge variation in the figures stated between different organizations. I'm not sure how reliable they are. Money isn't everything, but it would be helpful to at least know whether we'd be able to pay off our student loans within a reasonable amount of time.

5) What do you about the future of optometry in Canada in general? Do you think there is or will be an oversupply of optometrists in Canada?

Any input/advice would be really appreciated. Thanks!

 

[chocol8]

Thanks for posting this... I've been wondering the same thing.

Yes, I agree $ isn't everything, but I would like to know if I can pay off a $200K+ loan... the optometrists I work for say yes, but never really gave me salary #s, and it is awkward to directly ask. The new grads at the practice I'm at say they think starting salary is between $80-$100K based on what they make which is pretty good. Personally I'd be fine with a mediocre income... I just don't want to be in massive debt for a good portion of my 30s :S.

The new grads I work with also tell me it's all about location in Canada. If you're willing to work outside of a big city, you should be able to get a job.

As for the future of optometry in canada - i think it's good (in some parts). Ontario just passed a legislation in April that allows TPAs. BC's legislation is another story...

 

[Optogal]

Removed

 

[TOOptometrist]

The UW site no longer hosts classified ads for optometrists looking for jobs. I thought this thread was an appropriate place to discuss where such online resources are available.

The Canadian Association of Optometrists website hosts ads, but you must be a member to access them.
http://www.opto.ca/en/index.html

The Ontario Association of Optometrists website also hosts ads, but you also have to be a member to access them.
http://www.optom.on.ca/oao_members

Breton Communications is a Canadian optical industry publication. They have online classifieds here: (I currently have an ad posted on June 27 - if you're in Toronto looking for a good opportunity, please check it out)
http://www.bretoncom.com/classified/

Optical Prism is another Canadian optical publication. They host classifieds here:
http://www.opticalprism.ca/pages/classifieds

 

[swtster]

I'm seriously considering practicing optometry in Quebec and I was wondering if anyone has any insight re: the profession in the province.

I don't know much asides from the fact that RAMQ billing will be similar to OHIP, i.e. diabetics, medical emergencies, and those under the age of 19 and over the age of 65 are covered by the province.

Anyone have any experience working in Quebec? Any information would be much appreciated!

 

[Poser]

You can easily find a job starting at 500/day minimum in Quebec province.
Quebec's current market for optometry is much better than anywhere else in North America, this is due to the mandatory French board exam that eliminates a good portion of supply.