OHIP and Eye Exams in Ontario — What's Actually Covered?

If you've ever wondered whether your eye exam is covered by OHIP, you're not alone. It's one of the most common questions we hear at Lio & Light Eyecare — and the answer depends on your age.

Here's a simple breakdown of what OHIP covers for eye care in Ontario.

Children and Youth (Under 20)

OHIP covers one comprehensive eye exam per year for anyone under the age of 20. This includes a full assessment of your child's vision, eye health, and development — at no cost to you.

This is one of the most important and underused benefits in Ontario. Many children don't complain about poor vision simply because they don't know what clear vision is supposed to feel like. An annual eye exam can catch issues like nearsightedness, farsightedness, lazy eye, and more — often before they affect learning or development.

We recommend booking your child's exam before the school year starts. Spaces fill up quickly in late August and September.

Seniors (65 and Older)

OHIP also covers one comprehensive eye exam per year for adults aged 65 and older. As we age, the risk of conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, and diabetic eye disease increases — making regular monitoring especially important.

Adults (20–64)

For adults between 20 and 64, OHIP does not cover routine eye exams unless you have a specific medical condition such as diabetes, glaucoma, or certain other eye diseases. In those cases, OHIP may cover medically necessary visits.

For everyone else in this age group, a comprehensive eye exam is considered a private expense — though many extended health insurance plans cover part or all of the cost.

At Lio & Light Eyecare, we offer direct billing to most major insurance providers including Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, and Green Shield, so there's no paperwork on your end.

What Does a Comprehensive Eye Exam Include?

Whether you're covered by OHIP or private insurance, a comprehensive eye exam at Lio & Light Eyecare includes:

• A full assessment of your vision and prescription

• Eye pressure testing (for glaucoma screening)

• Retinal health evaluation using advanced imaging technology

• Dry eye assessment if needed

• A thorough discussion of your eye health and any concerns

We take the time to explain everything clearly and answer all your questions — no rushed appointments.

How to Book

Lio & Light Eyecare is located in Forest Hill Village at 398 Spadina Rd, Toronto. Dr. Alexa Hecht is currently welcoming new patients of all ages.

Book your appointment online or call us at (416) 630-4461. We offer direct billing to most major insurance providers and are open to new patients.

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