Eye Health
Our optometrists diagnose, treat, and help prevent diseases and disorders that affect your vision, eyes, and related structures. An eye exam is not only for an optical prescription but identifies general health conditions that can be found within your eye exam, like diabetes or glaucoma. Children as young as 6 months can have an eye exam, and are covered with Alberta Health Care for annual exams until they turn the age of 19. Seniors 65 and over are also covered by AHC for annual eye exams. Any medical issues or emergencies are also covered by AHC and can usually be seen same day. Most eye conditions are not systematic and require an eye exam to diagnose them. Eye health is part of your overall health.
What is the Difference Between Optometrists and Opticians?
Optometrists are healthcare professionals who provide primary vision care ranging from sight testing and correction to the diagnosis, treatment, and management of vision changes. They are licensed to practice optometry, which primarily involves performing eye exams and vision tests, prescribing corrective lenses, detecting certain eye abnormalities, and prescribing medications for certain eye diseases.
Opticians are technicians trained to design, verify and fit eyeglass lenses and frames, and other devices to correct eyesight. They use prescriptions supplied by optometrists, but do not test vision or write prescriptions for visual correction.