The Ontario Association of Optometrists (OAO) and its Board of Directors are pleased to announce the election of Dr. Jeffrey Guthrie as President of the association, effective Nov. 7, 2016.

Having served as an OAO board member since 2013 and OAO Vice-President since 2014, Dr. Guthrie is well-versed in the challenges and opportunities facing the optometric profession, and will now lead the association in its work for a two-year term ending Nov. 1, 2018.

“It’s an exciting time to be taking on the role of OAO president,” said Dr. Guthrie. “There’s been an incredible amount of work done over the past few years to bring the profession forward, and ensure that Ontario optometrists are compensated in a way that reflects the true value of our services. I look forward to building on the progress we’ve made under the leadership of Dr. Jeff Goodhew in opening a dialogue with the Ontario government, and setting the stage to ensure that our members can continue to provide the best care possible to Ontario patients.”

Dr. Guthrie, who practices optometry in Bancroft, Ontario, completed his Undergraduate degree (BSc. Science) at the University of Waterloo. He received his Doctor of Optometry Degree in Illinois, with extensive ocular disease training at University of Chicago Hospitals, Veterans Hospitals of Detroit, Michigan and West Palm Beach Florida and a Florida surgical practice.