Regular comprehensive eye exams are much more important than you might think. These exams are an essential part of preserving your overall health. During your appointment, your optometrist will be looking for signs of all kinds of potential issues that can affect other aspects of your health.
In British Columbia, eye exams can cost anywhere from $75–$250. It’s recommended to visit your optometrist at least once every one to two years for these exams; this way, you can maintain clear and comfortable vision with a full understanding of your eye health.
Why Are Eye Exams So Important?
Your eyes are your windows to the world. They let you engage with your surroundings, recognize faces, read, and appreciate the beauty of the world around you. However, many people also take their vision for granted and ignore the signs of potential problems.
Plenty of eye conditions can develop subtly but quickly, without showing any outward signs until the condition has already started damaging your eyes. However, they can also be easily detectable during a comprehensive eye exam.
Eye exams can spot conditions such as:
- Glaucoma
- Diabetes
- Cataracts
- Age-related macular degeneration
- Retinal damage
- High blood pressure
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Thyroid problems
Comprehensive eye exams aren’t just about making sure you have an updated prescription. They’re a key part of preserving your overall well-being.
How Much Do Eye Exams Cost?
It’s important to note that the cost of an eye exam can vary depending on several specific factors. In BC, you can usually expect to pay somewhere between $75–$250. This range depends greatly on:
- Your specific eye doctor
- Your location
- The in-house technology
- The type of exam
- Additional tests that may be required, such as visual field testing or retinal imaging
It may be helpful to call ahead to speak with your optometrist to avoid any unwanted financial surprises.
Does BC MSP Cover Eye Exams?
Insurance coverage can also play a significant role in the cost of eye exams. In BC, MSP—the provincial health insurance program—will occasionally cover eye exams, though this depends on a few factors.
In general, MSP will cover all or a portion of eye exams if:
- The patient is under the age of 19 or over the age of 64
- The eye exam is deemed a medical necessity due to eye trauma, injury, or illness
- The patient is prescribed with medications known to affect the eyes
- The patient is in possession of a medical note confirming the exam is required
A slight change in refractive power does not qualify for MSP coverage. However, some contributing factors include:
- Your age
- Any previously diagnosed conditions
- The sudden onset of symptoms
- Medical referrals
- Recent injury
If you’re unsure of your coverage, contact your optometrist. It’s also worth noting that many employee benefit programs often include eye coverage, so if you have any benefits provided by your work, you may receive coverage through this plan.
What’s Included in a Comprehensive Eye Exam?
A comprehensive eye exam involves several steps designed to assess your overall eye health. It begins with a quick discussion about your medical history, including any eye problems or general health issues. Bring along a list of any medications you’re currently taking alongside your current prescription, as this information is valuable.
Then, you’ll undergo a series of different tests designed to check your vision and eye health. These tests may include:
- Visual acuity test for clarity of vision
- Eye muscle coordination test
- Intraocular pressure measurement
- Pupil response test
- Assessment of eye health using a slit lamp
- Retinal examination
If you need any follow-up testing or additional checks, your optometrist will walk you through the next steps. Feel free to ask questions throughout your exam, as your comfort is key.
How Often Should You Get an Eye Exam?
The importance of regular eye exams can’t be overstated; they’re a crucial piece of preserving your vision and eye health. Setting up a schedule can help you stay on top of your family’s eye health.
It’s recommended that children have their first eye exam around the age of 6 months. They should have another exam before entering school, and then annual examinations through their school years. Your optometrist can monitor their visual development to detect potential problems before their vision is damaged.
For adults aged 19–64, it’s recommended to schedule a comprehensive eye exam at least once every 2 years. However, if you experience anything unusual, make a point to visit your optometrist sooner rather than later.
For adults aged 65 and older, annual eye exams are recommended. Conditions like cataracts and age-related macular degeneration develop slowly, but can be detected during an eye exam. People with a history of certain conditions—like diabetes, tumours, or high blood pressure—should visit the optometrist more often.
Is It Time for Your Next Eye Exam?
Being prepared is key—especially when it comes to your eye health. It can help you feel more comfortable knowing that your eye health is in good hands. If it’s time for your next eye exam, or if you’re experiencing any recent changes in your vision, come see our team at Willoughby Doctors of Optometry. Book your next appointment today—we’re here for you!
