New BCDO President: Dr. Brent Allen
Vancouver, May 13, 2026 – It’s our distinct honour to introduce our new President, Dr. Brent Allen!
Dr. Allen started his Presidency on April 30, 2026, replacing Dr. Evelyn Lo who served as BCDO President for two years. Serving his fourth term on the BCDO Board, Dr. Allen brings more than 30 years of experience and leadership to the role. Throughout his career, he has remained deeply committed to patient care, professional advocacy, and service to the optometric community. We look forward to Dr. Allen’s leadership as we continue to advance and strengthen optometry across British Columbia.
Curious to know more about Dr. Allen? We asked him ourselves! Find out more below.
What inspired you to pursue a career in optometry, and what has been the most rewarding part of your journey so far?
Being a 4th generation Optometrist I would have say the influence of family was what led me to pursue a career in Optometry. The most rewarding part of my job is the time I get to spend with patients. After transitioning away from ownership of practices, I have found that aspect of our job to be most enjoyable and my focus everyday in clinic.
Is there a mentor, experience, or piece of advice that has shaped your leadership approach or career?
I think spending time on several Boards, Canadian Examiners in Optometry, Eye Recommend as well as BCDO has exposed me to many great leaders over the years. I think it would be hard to single one out amongst them. I would encourage anyone to look for these kind of opportunities as you will find motivation from good leaders.
How long have you been involved with the BCDO Board, and what motivated you to step into the role of President?
This is my 4th term as Director with BCDO. I took a break of 2 years after doing 2 terms at which time I was reluctant to step up into a leadership role. Travel from the Kootenays is always difficult and making the move to Penticton has opened up this opportunity for me.
What are your top priorities for BCDO during your Presidency?
Making progress on scope modernization and moving the Board towards being less operational and more strategic.
What do you believe is the most important role BCDO plays in supporting members and advancing the profession?
One of the things BCDO does really well is create opportunities for our members to interact and learn from our colleagues. As someone who practiced solo for 30 years these were very important to my own growth personally and professionally.
What do you see as the biggest opportunities for the profession in the years ahead?
Technology is always changing fast and Optometrists are always at the forefront of that. I have to think that AI will have some large impacts on our day to day practice at some point in the next few years, making us more efficient and effective.
What excites you most about the future of optometric care?
I think for me having AI embedded in the software that I use everyday is something I am very excited about. I see great opportunities to be more efficient with patients…and fewer typos. It will allow me to spend more time making clinical decisions faster and communicating with patients.
What advice would you give to new graduates entering the profession today?
I would suggest they try several different practices and modalities to find out what suits them best before signing a long-term contract.
Outside of the clinic, how do you like to recharge?
I spend time at they gym, hiking and time on the lake when the weather allows it.
About BC Doctors of Optometry
BC Doctors of Optometry (BCDO) is a primary source for all vision, eye health, and eyewear needs of the people of British Columbia. As a member-based, not for profit association, BCDO represents over 800 optometrists across the province and works to enhance the profession of optometry. The association is dedicated to helping its member thrive and advocating for optometry to elevate patient eye care and outcomes. As a leader in optometry, BCDO is commited to improving access to eye care in over 100 communities in British Columbia.
For more information, visit bc.doctorsofoptometry.ca and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.