There is never a one-size-fits-all approach to healthcare, and eye exams are no exception.
Ontario has no fixed rate for eye exams. A standard eye exam can range from $120 to $250 depending on factors like the thoroughness of the exam, the technology used, optometrist expertise, and clinic location.
The doctors at First Optometry value providing quality, extensive care to our patients. Our comprehensive eye exams are $175 or $195 for contact lens wearers.
Why Does the Cost of Eye Exams Vary?
Eye exams are pivotal to maintaining good ocular health and preserving vision. These visits are about more than updating a vision prescription for new glasses.
Routine visits go a long way in detecting signs of any abnormalities or potential concerns early, allowing for timely intervention, and mitigating the impact of unhealthy eye conditions.
Children, senior adults, and those with diabetes or some ocular diseases have coverage for routine examinations through OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan). There are many people that fall outside the coverage of this plan. The cost of eye exams in this province has no one-size-fits-all price since not every service provided by an eye clinic is the same.
On average, a standard eye exam in Ontario may range between $120 to $250 based on several factors:
- Exam thoroughness
- Use of technology
- Optometrist expertise
- Clinic location
Exam Thoroughness
Not every eye exam visit is the same.
A basic eye exam will usually check for vision clarity, update your prescription, and screen for eye conditions. Providers of a basic examination may charge less for these assessments.
On the other hand, a comprehensive eye exam will include detailed assessments for conditions like glaucoma or macular degeneration, involving additional tests like retinal imaging and OCT scans.
Ultimately, while every visit may include an updated vision prescription, the level of detail and specialized tools involved, may increase the price of the exam because of the time and expertise required.
Use of Technology
Clinics equipped with specialized tools such as OCT scans, retinal images, topography, meibography, or visual field tests may charge more for their exams.
These diagnostic tools allow a thorough, in-depth assessment of your eye health, but come with operating costs reflected in pricing. Most basic exams may forgo these technologies.
Optometrist Expertise
Like other medical professionals, optometrists are always learning to improve their skills. Some optometrists have chosen to focus on special ocular needs, such as dry eye therapy or myopia control. There may be additional costs involved in testing for certain conditions.
Clinic Location
Eye exams offered in urban centres, where overhead costs such as rent and salaries tend to be higher, may come at a greater price compared to those in smaller towns or less populated areas.
Optical chains and big-box retailers often provide lower-cost exams at the expense of connections. Local clinics in prime locations focus on establishing a lasting patient basis, emphasizing personalized care and connection, leading to more cost.
The Cost of Our Eye Exam
For those not covered by OHIP, there are two rates for our eye exams.
Our comprehensive eye exams are $175. This includes an updated vision prescription and a thorough health assessment using retinal imaging and OCT scans. These diagnostic tools help us detect early signs of eye conditions so we can manage them before symptoms worsen. Dry eye screening is also performed at every examination.
Our comprehensive contact lens exam, priced at $195 includes the same services as the comprehensive exam but will also determine if the current contact lenses are fitting in a healthy way, and will establish an updated contact lens prescription.
Everyone, regardless of health status, is strongly advised to visit their optometrist for a routine eye exam. The frequency of these exams can vary depending on the results, but as a general rule:
- Children aged 19 and under are encouraged to have an annual eye exam. During this time, it’s normal for their vision to fluctuate. Children can have their first eye exam as young as 6 months!
- Most adults 65 and older are advised to have yearly eye exams, as they have an increased risk of age-related vision concerns like cataracts or macular degeneration. Some adults over 65 will be recommended to have eye examinations every 1.5 years, if they have no risk factors for ocular disease.
- Most patients between 20 to 64 can get by with an eye exam every two years. If they have an ocular disease, or are diabetic, they should be having annual examinations.
Routine exams for children 19 and under and 65 and older are covered through OHIP because they are more susceptible to visual changes and developing age-related eye conditions.
How Much Does Private Insurance Cover for an Exam?
The cost of vision care can add up, which is why our clinic accepts an array of private insurance that helps cover or reimburse the cost of your visit.
The extent of the coverage depends on the specific plan with your insurance provider. We can’t always check to see how much your insurance will cover ahead of your appointment.
If you’re unsure about the exact amount, we suggest directly connecting with your insurance plan prior to your visit.. This helps verify you have accurate information before your appointment.
Fortunately, we can directly bill most insurance companies, helping to make the process more seamless for our patients.
Request an Appointment
Eye exams are a necessary investment in your overall health. Private insurance and OHIP coverage can make overall vision care more affordable, but avoiding eye care altogether isn’t worth the risk.
Connect with our team at First Optometry to request an appointment for your routine eye exam.
