In our busy day-to-day life, it can be hard to keep all of our appointments and obligations straight! Still, maintaining your health and your family’s is important– there is no excuse for letting things go when your well-being is at stake. The Vision Gallery is here with five common questions and simple answers for the everyday Albertan.
How often should I visit the optometrist?
The frequency of your optometry appointments usually comes down to your medical and family history, with an eye doctor or optometrist making the final call. Risk factors and your environment may also influence a doctor’s instructions– though typically an annual eye exam is recommended for most patients.
What is an eye exam?
An eye exam consists of many tests including a vision screening (typically a “letter chart”) and other procedures designed to identify eye and vision health issues. Since there are few side effects to eye and vision problems, these tests are essential in catching them before they become serious or even untreatable.
If you require a prescription for corrective lenses (glasses or contacts), you must undergo regular eye exams to ensure it has not changed.
Does Alberta Health cover eye exams?
If you are an Alberta resident between the ages of 1 to 18 or 65 and older, your annual eye exams are fully covered under the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). Between the ages of 19 and 64, eye exams are the financial responsibility of you or your secondary insurer (if applicable). Medically necessary eye exams (approved by a physician) may also be partially or fully covered.
When is an eye exam necessary between regular visits?
If you have any discomfort in or around your eye and/or vision problems, you should visit an optometrist as soon as possible. An exam fee is a small price to pay to ensure the health of your eyes and vision– and it may even be covered by Alberta Health if your doctor deems it medically necessary.
Do I have to purchase glasses or contacts wherever I received my eye exam?
No– there is no obligation to buy any product. Once you are finished your eye exam, your optometrist will provide a copy of your updated prescription at your request.
The above five entries are only a sample of The Vision Gallery’s clients’ most common questions and concerns. If you are curious about anything we did not explain, simply contact or book an appointment online to visit us today! Feel free to make an appointment at one of our three locations through our online booking system.