Specialized insurance for optometrists — exclusively through the CAO

As a member of the Canadian Association of Optometrists (CAO), you have access to a comprehensive suite of insurance products designed specifically for the risks optometry practitioners face — in the clinic, online, and beyond.

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Protecting you and your practice through one program

From the exam room to your business operations, CAO members have an insurance program covers the full spectrum of risk — with products tailored to optometrists at every stage of their career:

Free legal advice — because protecting your practice shouldn't cost extra

Navigating the legal system is costly and time-consuming. That's why members who purchase Professional Liability Insurance (PLI) through BMS receive complimentary access to confidential legal guidance from Gowling WLG (Canada) LLP — one of Canada's leading national law firms with deep expertise in health care professional liability.

Professional legal helpline — no charge, no obligation

Reach a dedicated Gowlings lawyer for practical guidance on issues that affect your practice, including:

Privacy and confidentiality;
Conflicts of interest;
Responding to third-party requests for information;
Inquires from your regulatory body;
How to respond to a subpoena;
Professional misconduct matters; and
Ethical and professional obligations.

Gowlings Pro bono Legal Helpline: 1-844-792-2022
www.gowlingwlg.com

Need to report a claim? Here's what to do.

If an incident occurs that may give rise to a claim, act promptly. Notify your broker or insurer as soon as practicable and document the event thoroughly, including all parties involved and any relevant details.

Have the following ready when you report:

Your certificate of insurance
Statement of claim, declaration, motion, College complaint letter, or other applicable legal documents
Any other relevant documentation

PLI, Clinic PLI, CGL & Business Package
Contact BMS: 1-844-517-1371
cao.insurance@bmsgroup.com

Cyber — Breach Response Services (Beazley)
1-844-778-5950
bbrcanada@beazley.com

Employment Practices Liability (Berkley Canada)
claims@berkleycanada.com

Personal / Business Legal Insurance (ARAG)
1-877-255-4269 (English)
1-888-845-5205 (French)

Property — after-hours emergency claims (Intact)
1-877-248-3455
claims@intactinsurance.com

About BMS

BMS Canada Risk Services Ltd.
979 Bank St, Suite 200,
Ottawa, ON K1S 5K5

This website is for information purposes only. The policy wording sets out the terms and conditions of the insurance contract, including any exclusions, limitations deductibles, or coverage extensions that may apply. In the event of a claim such terms and conditions may limit the amount of payable or exclude coverage. If you wish to receive a copy of the full policy wording, please contact us.

For more information about your insurance broker, BMS Canada, and insurance regulatory principles of conduct, please click here.