Ocular surface diseases can cause severe and debilitating eye pain. Without a proper diagnosis and adequate treatment, people suffering from these diseases are unable to enjoy a normal standard of living and are often unable to work.

Provincial healthcare plans do not recognize ocular surface disorders as serious diseases. As a result, Canadians with these conditions are forced to pay thousands of dollars out-of-pocket for essential treatments, and some have to travel out-of-country to obtain a diagnosis. This is unacceptable in a country with a commitment to ensure equitable access to essential healthcare services.