Taking care of your eyes is a crucial part of maintaining your overall health and well-being—and regular eye exams are an important part of that care. But one common question many Albertans have is: How much does an eye exam cost? The cost of a routine adult eye exam in Alberta typically ranges from $100 to $170, depending on the clinic, your age (children and seniors are less), and whether additional testing or follow-up care is required.
We’ll explore what decides the cost of an eye exam, how Alberta Health Care coverage works, and why routine eye checks are a good investment in your vision and long-term health.
What’s Covered by Alberta Health Care?
As of February 1, 2025, Alberta Health implemented changes to provincial coverage for optometry services. Some services are no longer publicly funded, which means more patients may face out-of-pocket costs for certain types of care. Here are a few key changes:
- Partial exams for children and seniors have been delisted.
- Retinal imaging and photography are reduced per benefit year.
- Basic services and medically necessary care can no longer be billed on the same day.
- Computer-Assisted Visual Field testing fees have been reduced.
If you’re booking an exam, it’s best to ask your optometrist what is covered under Alberta Health and what may involve additional fees.
Alberta Health Care continues to provide a portion to cover annual comprehensive eye exams for children (under 19) and seniors (65 and over), as well as a portion for medically necessary visits for all age groups, such as sudden vision changes, eye infections, or foreign object removal. Due to the reduction in funding from AHC, many clinics have to charge a fee to continue providing a high standard of care and proper testing. Adults aged 19 to 64 without a medical concern typically pay out of pocket or use private insurance.
What Affects the Price of an Eye Exam?
- Type of exam: A comprehensive eye exam will be more in-depth than a basic vision test, often including additional screenings for eye diseases.
- Additional testing: If your optometrist recommends retinal imaging, OCT scans, or visual field testing, these services may cost extra.
- Clinic location: Eye exam pricing can vary slightly based on whether the clinic is in a rural or urban area.
- Private insurance: Many insurance plans cover all or part of an eye exam. Be sure to check your benefits before your appointment.
Understanding the scope of services included in your exam can help you avoid surprises—and ensure you’re getting the care you need.
What Happens During an Eye Exam?
An eye exam is more than just reading letters off a chart. A comprehensive appointment usually takes 30 to 45 minutes and includes the following:
- Medical history review: Your optometrist will ask about your overall health, family history of eye disease, and current symptoms.
- Visual acuity test: Measures how clearly you can see at different distances.
- Refraction test: Determines your prescription for glasses or contacts.
- Eye health evaluation: Uses lights, lenses, and imaging tools to inspect the internal and external parts of your eyes.
- Additional testing: Based on your age, risk factors, or symptoms, your optometrist may recommend further diagnostic scans.
Routine exams help detect common conditions like myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia, but also play a vital role in identifying eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, or macular degeneration.
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
Whether it’s your first visit or a routine check-up, here’s how to make the most of your exam:
- Bring your current glasses or contact lenses.
- Know your health history and medications, especially those that may impact vision.
- List any symptoms or concerns, including dry eyes, eye strain, or blurry vision.
- Check your insurance coverage and bring any necessary cards or forms.
- Come with questions—your optometrist is there to help!
Can an Eye Exam Detect More Than Vision Problems?
Absolutely it can. A comprehensive eye exam can reveal much more than changes to your glasses prescription. Some conditions—like diabetes, high blood pressure, or even neurological issues—can first show signs inside the eyes.
Early detection is key. Catching a condition like glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy early can help preserve your vision and prevent future complications. That’s why regular eye exams should be part of your health routine, even if your vision seems fine.
Tips for Saving on Eye Care
Even if you’re paying out of pocket, there are ways to keep eye care affordable:
- Use your extended health benefits before they expire.
- Look for promotions on glasses or contact lenses.
- Consider employer vision coverage—some plans include eye exams and eyewear allowances.
- Ask your optometrist about co-pay or payment options.
Don’t skip your exam to save money—neglecting eye care can cost you more in the long run if problems go undetected.
Prioritizing Your Vision in Bonnyville & St. Paul
Taking care of your eyes is an investment in your future. Whether you’re due for a routine eye exam, noticing changes in your vision, or managing a long-term condition, regular visits to your optometrist are key.
At Lakeland Family Eye Care, we’re proud to provide comprehensive eye exams for families in Bonnyville and St. Paul. Our friendly team will walk you through each step of your appointment and help you understand any associated costs or insurance coverage. We also offer co-pay options to make care more accessible.
Book your next eye exam with Lakeland Family Eye Care and experience dedicated, small-town service from people who care about your family’s vision.
