A Calgary university plans to house Western Canada’s first optometry school.

Mount Royal University (MRU) and the University of Waterloo in Ontario recently signed a memorandum of understanding putting this idea in focus.

“A new school of optometry will not only meet our province’s growing need for qualified optometrists, but will also ensure that diverse communities, particularly in rural and underserved areas, have greater access to essential vision care and comprehensive health support,” said Dr. Kim Bugera. , Registrar and CEO of College of Optometrists of Alberta.

The School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, located at the University of Waterloo, was established in 1967.

It is the only English language school in optometry in Canada.

One of the main goals of the partnership is to find the best ways to fight disease and the addition of another school will help.

“Age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, hypertension And diabetes are prevalent in rural and indigenous communities,” officials said.

“As primary health care providers, optometrists receive extensive and continuing education to examine, diagnose, treat and manage ocular disorders, diseases and injuries as well as systemic diseases that occur within the eye. »

Alberta Association of Optometrists President Dr. Sophia Leung says this agreement will ensure there are “competent optometrists ready to serve Alberta’s growing population.”

“The time has come for Alberta to be a leader in education and move forward with the first school of optometry for students in this province, while supporting those in Western Canada .”

MRU says the next steps will include establishing a steering committee, made up of members from both schools, to see how the goal can be achieved.

“This work will involve reviewing information, resources and regulations to determine the feasibility of implementing a school of optometry in Alberta. For example, issues to consider may include infrastructure, resources financial and human, accreditation,” MRU said in a statement.

The work will also involve representatives from the Alberta Association of Optometrists and the College of Optometrists of Alberta.