Has your child seen the optometrist this year? Given that 80% of school-aged children learn through their eyes, it is essential to make sure they see correctly.
Did you know that most provinces cover the cost of eye exams for children? As uncorrected vision can impact their life.
Here is a summary of the government's health coverage for optometry services in each province an IRIS store is located.
New Brunswick
Although there is no universal government coverage for eye exams in the Province of New Brunswick, there are special programs for underprivileged children under 18. Plus, all 4-year-old children in NB are entitled to one free eye examination. In both programs, should glasses be required, the province will provide them. To learn more, visit the Healthy Smiles, Clear Vision website.
Quebec
Children under the age of 18 receive free optometry services covered by the RAMQ public plan. Eye exams are covered under this plan. To learn more, click here.
Ontario
For children aged 19 and under, the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP), the province's health insurance plan, covers the cost of a complete annual eye exam and any follow-up assessments that may be required. To learn more, click here.
Alberta
With the Alberta Health Care (AHC), children under the age of 19 are eligible for one comprehensive eye exam, partial examination and diagnostic procedure per year, from July 1st to June 30th, with a valid health care card. To learn more, click here.
British Columbia
The BC Medical Services Plan (MSP) covers the annual eye exam fee for children 18 and under who have a valid health insurance card. To learn more, click here.
It is recommended that your child's vision be examined, even if there are no apparent signs of problems, according to the following schedule:
- At 6 months old
- At the age of 3
- Before entering school (4-5 years old)
- Every year, from 6 years old to adulthood
Do not wait any longer. Plan your young one's annual eye exam to make sure that they can see clearly! You may also be interested in these 4 tips to protect your child's eyes.
If the optometrist prescribes eyeglasses after an eye exam, you will be able to take advantage of our COOL Kids Package! And, if an accident happens to your child's glasses, no problem: you are covered by our No Matter What Guarantee. If your child's glasses break within the first year following the purchase date, we will replace or repair the pair of glasses at no charge, no matter what the reason.
Do not hesitate to contact the team at your nearest IRIS store for more information.
