Here is a brief overview of Alberta Health’s vision coverage.
Children
Alberta Health covers one complete eye exam for children and teens under the age of 19 every benefit year (a benefit year is July 1 – June 30). They will also cover one partial exam and one diagnostic procedure. Please note that Alberta Health doesn’t cover retinal photos, so that will be an added fee. Alberta Health will also cover medically necessary exams and eye health emergencies.
Adults
Alberta Health does not cover eye exams for adults between the ages of 19 and 64, with the exception of medically necessary exams and eye health emergencies.
Seniors
Like with children, Alberta Health covers one complete eye exam, one partial exam, and one diagnostic procedure for seniors over the age of 65. Again, Alberta Health will not cover retinal photos. Alberta Health will also cover medically necessary exams and eye health emergencies.
Medically necessary exams/eye health emergencies
Alberta Health will cover exams for issues such as:
- eye infections
- eye injuries
- objects in eyes
- sudden changes in vision
- sudden flashes/floaters
- monitoring for diabetes, glaucoma, retinal disease
Please note: Alberta Health does not cover eye exams, procedures, or other Optometry services that are received from outside of Alberta, regardless of age or eye health issue.
If you are unsure if your specific situation/issue will be covered by Alberta Health, make sure to check with your Optometrist’s office when you are booking your exam.