Even if you do not notice problems with your vision, regular eye exams with an optometrist are recommended
to screen for visual problems that can be detected before you notice them. Conditions such as glaucoma do not
have any symptoms until the vision loss is present and untreatable. However early detection and treatment can
prevent vision loss. Other systemic conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure can also be detected by
looking at the delicate blood vessels inside the eye.
This depends on your age and risk factors. For instance, for healthy adults with no other risk factors,
we suggest a routine eye health examination every two years. For children below the age of nineteen and adults above the
age of sixty-five yearly eye exams are recommended.
A first eye exam is highly recommended at the age of three if there are no earlier concerns. A child does not need to
know their alphabet as there are different techniques used in a young child's eye exam that are specially developed for young children
to understand. However, if a parent suspects a problem they can have their children's eyes and vision examined at any age.
In most routine first eye exams there will be no concerns. However, the first five years of life are the most critical to the development
of the visual area in the brain. Early detection for certain conditions are crucial as treatment is often only effective in the young development ages.
The length of an eye exam depends on your age, eye conditions, risk factors, whether you wear contact lenses or not, and your questions.
We suggest allowing for an hour at the office, although in many cases it can take less time. In some rare cases, when we have to fit in someone with
an eye emergency, we may be delayed, but we strive to keep you informed if this occurs. If you plan to shop for new frames, allow more time for that
process before or after the exam.
This depends on your eyes and general health and is very individual. If you are interested in refractive surgery please mention
it during your eye health exam and your doctor will go over it with you.
This depends on your age and your medical or eye conditions. All children under the age of nineteen and seniors over the age of 65 are
partially covered by MSP every year. Between the ages of nineteen and sixty-five the coverage and frequency depends on certain systemic and eye health
conditions.
For example, adults diagnosed with Diabetes have partial MSP coverage yearly. These conditions that are covered are subject to change
by the BC government. Please contact our office with questions about your specific coverage.
We accept cash, debit, Visa, and Mastercard.
YES!
We can directly bill many extended health insurance plans for you in office. There are quite a few different providers and a variety of types of coverage.
Occasionally certain providers will change their ability for us to direct bill.
Please check with your provider before your eye exam to see how much they cover towards eye exams and eyewear.
We are also able to bill directly for those covered through the Ministry of Social Development for individuals or families who are on income assistance or
disability. As well as Blue Cross for Veterans Affairs, RCMP, Canadian Forces, and First Nations & Inuit Health.
Please let our staff know about your coverage when making your appointment. It is recommended that you check before you arrive, if you are unsure
what you are covered for.