COBC’s amalgamation into the new multi-profession health regulatory body will be completed by the end of June 2024.
Optional Indigenous self-identification
Beginning in February 2023, COBC registrants and applicants will have the option to self-identify as Indigenous and also indicate whether they would be interested in being contacted by COBC about opportunities to provide their perspectives on regulatory issues related to Indigenous Cultural Safety & Humility.
Spotlight on Standard 1: Client-Centred Practice
Standard 1 describes how the optician ensures that every aspect of service delivery is centred around the client’s immediate and ongoing visual needs.
Creating and maintaining a safer complaints system for Indigenous peoples
In response to the 2020 In Plain Sight report, and in support of our new practice standard, “Indigenous Cultural Safety, Cultural Humility, and Anti-Racism,” COBC has engaged in a meaningful project that will make Indigenous Anti-Racism a foundational part of our complaints and inquiry system.
‘Illumination’ by Margaret August
COBC is honoured to present ‘Illumination’ by Coast Salish visual artist Margaret August. This powerful Coast Salish visual art in the form of an owl represents many teachings from ancestors and the Shíshálh Nation, while also telling a story about the decolonization of the COBC complaints system.
SPOTLIGHT ON STANDARD 12: PRIVACY AND CONFIDENTIALITY
Standard 12 describes how an optician respects clients’ rights to the privacy and confidentiality of their personal and health information and complies with applicable legislation at all times.
New legislation: Health Professions and Occupations Act
New Act proposes amalgamation of health regulators, creation of oversight body, and more.
COBC adopts Indigenous Cultural Safety, Cultural Humility, and Anti-Racism standard of practice
Standard 4: Indigenous Cultural Safety, Cultural Humility, and Anti-Racism is in effect for all BC opticians as of September 30, 2022.
Spotlight on Standard 9 – Independent Automated Refraction
Standard 9 describes how an optician adheres to the mandated criteria associated with performing independent automated refractions, including obtaining certification.
Refer to the resources in COBC’s Automated Refracting Toolkit for more information.