OHIP Coverage For Eye Exams
If you’re a resident of Ontario, Canada, you’re entitled to access emergency and preventative care under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan, also known as OHIP. Services covered under OHIP may vary, depending on your age. Does OHIP cover eye exams? Learn whether you’re covered for an eye exam at your neighbourhood Pearle Vision EyeCare Centre with OHIP.
Are Eye Exams Covered by OHIP?
Annual eye exams are fully covered by OHIP for children (19 or younger) and for seniors (65 or older). For adults between the ages of 20-64 years old, routine eye exams aren’t covered by OHIP and will need to be paid out of pocket or through a private insurance. However, adults with specific eye conditions in need of regular monitoring will be covered for an eye exam every 12 months and any follow-up appointments related to that condition. Covered eye conditions under OHIP, include:
- Amblyopia
- Cataracts
- Corneal disease
- Diabetes mellitus
- Glaucoma
- Optic pathway disease
- Recurrent uveitis
- Retinal disease
- Strabismus
- Visual field defects
Are Eyeglasses Tax Deductible in Canada?
Prescription contacts and eyeglasses are tax deductible in Canada. If you’re a Canadian citizen, don’t forget to claim this expense on your yearly tax return. In order to claim your glasses or contacts, all you need to do is submit a receipt for your purchase with the date and a copy of your prescription. Any time you purchase a new pair of lenses, make sure to save the receipt and prescription to get your money back.
How to Use OHIP at Pearle Vision
Many Pearle Vision EyeCare Centres are locally owned by area eyecare professionals, which means direct billing vision insurance companies can vary between EyeCare Centres. Contact your neighbourhood Pearle Vision EyeCare Centre to ask whether OHIP is accepted at that specific location. If the answer is yes, make an appointment to take advantage of your eye exam benefits.
