Who Gets a Free Eye Exam Under AHCIP?
Children Under 19
AHCIP covers one comprehensive eye exam per calendar year for all Alberta residents under 19. There is no cost to the patient or the family. Bring your child’s Alberta Health Care card to the appointment. A significant number of Edmonton children go years without using this benefit. Booking an annual children’s eye exam in Edmonton costs nothing and can catch problems that affect learning and development.
Adults 65 and Older
Adults 65 and older are entitled to one fully covered comprehensive eye exam per year under AHCIP. This is particularly important given that the risks of glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy all increase with age. If you have a parent or grandparent who has not had an eye exam recently, there is no financial reason to delay.
Adults 19 to 64 With Qualifying Medical Conditions
Adults between 19 and 64 are not covered for routine eye exams under AHCIP, with one significant exception: medically necessary exams related to a covered condition are covered. Conditions that typically qualify include:
- Diabetes (Type 1 or Type 2)
- Glaucoma or suspected glaucoma
- Amblyopia (lazy eye)
- Strabismus (crossed or turned eyes)
- Following eye surgery or laser treatment
For diabetic patients specifically, read our guide on diabetic eye exams in Edmonton for information on why annual screening is medically essential and how to confirm AHCIP coverage.
What About Adults 19 to 64 Without a Medical Condition?
- Extended health benefits: The majority of Albertans with employer-sponsored benefit plans have eye care coverage that includes a comprehensive exam every one to two years. Check your plan booklet or the insurer’s app for your specific benefit.
- Direct billing: Eyes On Optometry direct-bills most major extended health insurers, so you do not need to pay out of pocket and submit a claim yourself.
- Out-of-pocket cost: Contact our office for our current pricing if you have no extended benefits and do not qualify for AHCIP coverage.
What Does a Covered Eye Exam Actually Include?
The AHCIP-covered comprehensive eye exam includes the full clinical assessment conducted during a comprehensive eye exam at Eyes On Optometry, including visual acuity testing, refraction, eye pressure measurement, retinal examination, and binocular vision assessment. Additional tests beyond the standard assessment may be billed separately. Your optometrist will inform you if any additional tests are recommended and their cost.
Are Contact Lens Fittings Covered?
No. AHCIP covers the eye health and prescription components of your exam but not the additional contact lens fitting assessment, which involves corneal measurements, tear film evaluation, and trial lens fitting. Some extended health plans include a separate contact lens benefit.
Are Glasses or Contact Lenses Covered?
AHCIP does not cover the cost of prescription glasses. Extended health benefit plans frequently include a glasses or contact lens allowance, typically on a two-year cycle.
Book Your Eye Exam at Eyes On Optometry
When you book with Eyes On Optometry, let us know your coverage status. We direct-bill most major insurers so the process is straightforward. Book your eye exam in Edmonton and our team will confirm your coverage before your appointment.
For information on how often you should be coming in based on your age and health, read our guide on how often you should get an eye exam in Edmonton.