Taking care of your eyes is a core part of your overall health, and one of the easiest forms of eye care is comprehensive eye exams. These exams help your optometrist monitor changes in your vision and offer valuable insights into your eye health. But there is still one important question here: how much does an eye exam actually cost?
In Alberta, the cost of an eye exam tends to range between $100-150. However, this cost varies depending on the optometrist, location, and testing performed. In some situations, eye exams are covered by the Alberta Health Insurance Care Plan, or AHCIP.
What Does AHCIP Cover?
The Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan, also called AHCIP, is a publicly funded health coverage program. It’s designed to cover Alberta residents for any medically necessary services.
Typically, AHCIP covers:
- Visits to physicians and certain specialists.
- Medically necessary diagnostic tests, such as X-rays and blood work.
- Hospital services like standard ward accommodation, meals, and surgical procedures.
- Some surgeries performed in a hospital setting.
- Standard medical care during pregnancy and childbirth.
The goal of AHCIP is simple—to make healthcare accessible to people living in Alberta. This program is a valuable resource for helping people get the medical care they need.
When Does AHCIP Cover Eye Exams?
When it comes to eye care and optometry services, matters become a little more complex. AHCIP does sometimes cover eye exams and other eye care services, but not always.
Typically, you can follow these guidelines for AHCIP eye care services:
- Children aged 18 and under are covered for one eye exam every year, alongside one diagnostic test.
- Seniors aged 65 and older are covered for one eye exam every year, alongside one diagnostic test.
- Adults aged 18-65 when the exam is deemed medically necessary by a healthcare professional
These guidelines can sometimes vary. If you’re unsure, contact your optometrist—they can help you determine if AHCIP will cover your exam or if you’ll need to think about other forms of payment.
What Conditions Affect AHCIP Coverage?
For adults, AHCIP coverage often doesn’t cover eye exams. However, certain conditions affect this. AHCIP tends to cover your exam if you’re living with:
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- Age-related macular degeneration
- Eye injuries
- Severe infections
- Foreign bodies in the eye
- Diabetes-related complications
- Retinal damage
These conditions significantly affect quality of life, so AHCIP steps in to help make your eye care more accessible. However, AHCIP does not cover standard exams for adults aged 19-64, or any services for eyeglasses or contacts unless it’s medically necessary.
How Much Do Eye Exams Cost Out-of-Pocket?
For those not covered by AHCIP or other insurance, you’ll likely need to pay for your exam directly. Fortunately, comprehensive eye exams only cost between $100-150. This can vary, however.
The cost of your eye exam will depend on:
- The optometrist you choose and their experience
- The complexity of your eye health needs
- Whether any additional tests or procedures are needed
- Your location
Having an open discussion about costs with your optometrist makes all the difference. It helps you plan ahead and avoid any unwanted financial surprises.
Why Are Eye Exams So Important?
Eye exams are more important than they seem at first. Many people think these exams are just about vision, but that’s not quite the case. Regular comprehensive eye exams are an important part of an overall healthcare plan.
During an eye exam, your optometrist is looking at more than what prescription you need. They’re also looking for subtle signs of underlying conditions that could have long-lasting effects on your health. Your optometrist can catch signs of:
- Glaucoma, a condition that can lead to vision loss if untreated
- Cataracts, which can cloud the lens of the eye over time
- Age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of vision impairment
- Diabetes, as changes in the blood vessels of the retina can cause complications
- High blood pressure, which often shows warning signs during an eye exam
All of these conditions are much easier to treat in their earliest stages. With a comprehensive eye exam, our team can find potential problems before they permanently affect you. These exams are a great way to keep your eyes healthy and your vision clear—and to find peace of mind.
How Often Should You Have an Eye Exam?
So how often should you visit your optometrist? Even if you’re not covered by AHCIP, it helps to follow these guidelines:
- Children and teenagers should have eye exams once every year to support their development and maintain clear vision for school and everyday life.
- Adults aged 20-64 should have eye exams every 1-2 years, unless specific conditions or unusual symptoms are at play.
- Seniors aged 65 and older should have yearly eye exams to track any changes in their vision and look for age-related eye problems.
If you notice anything unusual, visit your optometrist sooner rather than later. This way, you can stay on top of your eye health and maintain your vision.
Book Your Next Eye Exam Today
Regular eye exams are an easy way to protect your eyes and vision. And while cost does play an important role, you have plenty of options available. To learn more, contact our team here at Visionary Eye Centre—or book your appointment today to talk to us in person! Together, we can keep your eyes healthy and your vision clear, just like you deserve.
