How Much Does an Eye Exam Cost in Edmonton (2024)?
Ever wondered why the cost of an eye exam varies so much in Edmonton? It’s because not all eye exams are created equal. At Helio Optometry, we believe your eyes deserve more than just a quick prescription update. That’s why our comprehensive eye exams, priced at $125, are designed to provide a deeper look into your eye health. We use advanced imaging technology and thorough assessments to check for more than just clarity of vision—we screen for eye conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and other underlying health issues.
Our personalized approach ensures you not only get the right prescription but also the peace of mind that your vision is in expert hands. With Helio Optometry, you’re investing in more than an exam—you’re investing in your long-term eye health.
Adult Eye Exam in Edmonton Cost: $99-$165
It's important to note that Alberta Health Care does not cover routine eye exams for adults aged 19 to 64, whether performed at an optometrist's or ophthalmologist's office. While medically necessary services are still covered, routine comprehensive eye exams, essential for monitoring overall eye health and detecting early signs of vision problems, are not included.
Many Albertans have insurance coverage through their employer, personal medical plans, or government funded insurance plans like AISH, Alberta Works or NHIB that can help offset these costs.
Our research shows that most eye exams in Edmonton for 2024 range from approximately $99 to $165. Several factors influence this cost variation, including the clinic's location, the advanced diagnostic equipment available, the appointment duration and the doctors training or expertise. Additionally, some eye clinics may offer lower exam prices as an incentive to sell eyewear, bundling services and products to provide value to their patients. However, it's important to note that bundling eye exams with eyewear sales may mean you are not getting the most accurate treatment plan tailored to your needs. Understanding what each clinic includes in their standard eye exam is essential to ensure you receive comprehensive and precise eye care.
Not all eye exams are created equally, so it's essential to consult with clinics to understand what is included in their standard adult eye exam fee. Visit our eye exam page to see our current fees and what's included.
Seniors Eye Exam Cost in Edmonton (Ages 65+)
Alberta Health Care covers All seniors in Alberta for one complete eye exam every year between July 1st and June 30th. These routine eye exams are very important for diagnosing and monitoring cataracts, glaucoma, diabetes, high blood pressure and age-related macular degeneration.
However, there may be additional costs if the eye clinic you visit offers more advanced technology, as Alberta Health Care only covers the basic eye exam. Clinics must disclose any extra fees to patients before proceeding with the exam. Fees may be charged for additional tests like imaging, dry eye analysis, and myopia progression.
Why Can Optometrists Charge Extra? Optometrists in Alberta may charge additional fees due to longstanding funding challenges. The Alberta Government has not renegotiated contracts with optometrists for several years, leaving many fees unchanged for nearly a decade. As a result, optometrists are often subsidizing the cost of eye care. This situation is similar to British Columbia, where the government covers a portion of the bill, and the consumer pays the balance. As funding pressures continue, we expect to see balanced billing increase in Alberta over the coming years.
It's also important to note that Alberta Health Care does not cover second opinions for seniors; these would be considered non-insured visits. These routine eye exams are very important for diagnosing and monitoring cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration.
In addition to routine eye exams, Alberta Health Care covers seniors for all medical emergencies related to their eyes. This includes conditions such as red eyes, infections, dry eyes, or medication side effects. If you experience any of these issues, seeking prompt care from your optometrist is crucial, and you can rest assured that Alberta Health Care will cover the necessary medical services.
Pediatric Eye Exam Cost in Edmonton (Ages 0-18)
Alberta Health Care also covers children for one complete eye exam every year between July 1st and June 30th. However, there may be additional fees if specialized testing is performed during the exam. Children may also be covered for further examinations if recommended by their optometrist or if they have specific visual concerns, such as amblyopia or progressive myopia. In addition, Alberta Health Care covers children for all eye care emergencies, including red eyes, pink eyes, eye infections, and general eye health concerns. Like with senior eye exams, Alberta Health Care does not cover second opinions for seniors; these would be considered non-insured visits.
Seeing Your Optometrist for Medically Necessary Eye Exams
The first thing we want everyone to know is that Alberta Health Care covers all medically required visits for conditions like eye infections, injuries, trauma, stuck contact lenses, and foreign object removal, such as metal shavings. We don't want anyone to delay seeking care from their optometrist due to cost concerns. Prompt treatment is essential for maintaining eye health and preventing complications.
Here are the top 10 reasons people seek urgent eye care from optometrists in Edmonton:
Eye infections
Eye injuries
Sudden vision changes
Stuck contact lenses
Foreign object removal (e.g., metal shavings)
Severe eye pain
Red or irritated eyes
Flashes of light or floaters
Chemical exposure
Trauma to the eye
Why Choose Helio Optometry?
At Helio Optometry, we pride ourselves on providing comprehensive, personalized eye care. Our team is dedicated to ensuring you receive the best care tailored to your needs. Whether it's a routine check-up or managing a complex eye condition, we're here to help you maintain healthy vision. Our Edmonton eye care clinic uses the latest technology, such as Optomap Ultra Widefield Retinal Imaging, for every routine eye health exam. In addition, our clinic is equipped with all the other equipment covered by Alberta Health Care, such as 3D OCT Imaging and Computerized Visual Fields. Plus, every eye exam concludes with a copy of your prescription.
For more detailed information or to book an appointment, please contact us directly or book online. We look forward to caring for your eye health needs in 2024 and beyond!
Disclaimer: The content provided in this blog post by Helio Optometry eye care clinic in West Edmonton is intended solely for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment by a Licensed Optometrist. No doctor/patient relationship is established through the use of this blog. The information and resources presented are not meant to endorse or recommend any particular medical treatment or guarantee and outcome. Readers must consult with their own healthcare provider regarding their health concerns. Helio Optometry and its optometrists do not assume any liability for the information contained herein nor for any errors or omissions. Use of the blog's content is at the user's own risk, and users are encouraged to make informed decisions about their health care based on consultations with qualified professionals.
