Last reviewed: October 7, 2026
OHIP helps cover eye examinations for eligible Ontario residents. Coverage depends on your age, eye health and previous covered visits. Please bring your valid Ontario health card.
What’s covered?
- Ages 0–19: One major eye examination every 12 months, plus medically necessary minor assessments.
- Ages 20–64: One major eye examination every 12 months if you have an eligible medical condition.
- Ages 65+: One major eye examination every 12 months with an eligible medical condition, or every 18 months without one.
For adults, each applicable 12- or 18-month period also includes up to two eligible minor follow-up assessments after a covered examination with an optometrist.
Eligible conditions include diabetes and specified forms of glaucoma, cataracts and other eye diseases. Having an eye condition does not automatically qualify you. See Ontario’s full eligibility criteria.
What isn’t covered?
Routine examinations for most adults aged 20–64, glasses and contact lenses are not covered by OHIP. Private insurance may help with these costs.
Additional services, such as retinal photography or OCT imaging, may have separate fees. Some diagnostic testing, including eligible visual-field assessments, is covered.
Not sure whether you qualify?
Sometimes we can’t confirm coverage until Dr. Akhter reviews your health history and examines your eyes. If coverage is uncertain, we’ll explain any possible examination fee before starting.
We’ll explain recommended uninsured tests and their fees and obtain your consent before proceeding. You can decline additional paid testing and still receive your OHIP-covered examination.
No referral is needed. Book directly with Dr. Zara Akhter.
Learn more: College of Optometrists of Ontario: information about your care.