Residents aged 20-64 MAY be eligible for vision care coverage if their eye sight can be affected by various ailments such as: diabetes mellitus, glaucoma, cataracts, strabismus, amblyopia, visual field defects, uveitis, retinal disease, corneal disease or optic pathway disease.

Alberta Health will pay for all eye examinations for patients ranging from age 18 and under, and seniors from age 65 and over, including routine comprehensive annual exams. For people aged 19-64, routine comprehensive eye examinations are NOT covered under Alberta Health, but medically necessary examinations are.

Think of your optometrist as the primary care doctor for your eyes. Your ophthalmologist is more of a specialist who can treat complex medical issues related to your eyes, and can perform corrective procedures or surgeries. Both are required to participate in continuing education every year.

Flexible spending account funds can be used to purchase prescription glasses. If you've been putting off getting a new pair of prescription glasses, consider using your FSA funds.