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How Much Does an Eye Exam Cost in St. Albert?

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If you’re searching for an optometrist in St. Albert, understanding eye exam costs is essential. At Erin Ridge Vision Care, we believe in transparent pricing and accessible eye care for the St. Albert community. Here’s what you need to know about costs and what’s included in your visit.

Understanding Eye Exam Costs in St. Albert

Average Cost: $100 – $150

This price range reflects standard comprehensive eye exams for adults in Alberta. The exact cost can vary based on the complexity of testing, advanced diagnostic technology used, and individual patient needs.

A comprehensive eye exam is more than checking if you need glasses, it’s a thorough assessment of your overall eye health and includes disease screening for serious conditions.

What’s Included in Your Eye Exam?

A comprehensive eye exam at our clinic typically includes:

  • Vision assessment and prescription testing for glasses or contact lenses
  • Eye health evaluation examining internal and external eye structures
  • Disease screening for glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy
  • Eye pressure measurement to test for glaucoma
  • Pupil response and eye movement assessments

Factors That Affect Eye Exam Pricing

Several factors can influence the cost of your eye exam:

  • Advanced diagnostic technology like digital retinal imaging or OCT scans
  • Exam complexity including contact lens fittings or specialized testing
  • Additional testing such as visual field analysis or corneal topography

Alberta Health Care Coverage for Eye Exams

Understanding what’s covered by Alberta Health Care can significantly impact your out-of-pocket costs. As of 2025, coverage varies based on age and medical necessity.

Children (Ages 0-18)

Covered: One complete eye exam per year

Annual eye exams are essential for children as their eyes are constantly developing. Early detection of vision problems can prevent learning difficulties and support healthy development.

Adults (Ages 19-64)

Not Covered: Routine comprehensive eye exams

Most adults need to pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance benefits. However, medically necessary eye care such as infections, injuries, and emergencies is covered by Alberta Health Care. Expect to pay $100-$150 for a comprehensive exam.

Seniors (Ages 65+)

Partially Covered: One eye exam per year

Alberta Health Care provides partial coverage for annual senior eye exams to monitor age-related conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.

Private Insurance Coverage

Many St. Albert residents have vision coverage through employer health plans or private insurance. Most insurance plans cover all or part of your eye exam costs. At Erin Ridge Vision Care, we offer direct billing to many insurance providers including Alberta Blue Cross, Canada Life, Manulife, Sun Life Financial, and Great-West Life.

Eye Exams at Erin Ridge Vision Care

At Erin Ridge Vision Care, we provide comprehensive eye care services tailored to meet the unique needs of every patient. Our experienced optometrists use state-of-the-art technology to ensure accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment plans. We offer comprehensive eye exams, digital retinal imaging for detailed retina views, prescription updates, and eye disease management for conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration.

Children’s Eye Exams

Children’s vision needs are unique and require specialized attention. At Erin Ridge Vision Care, we create a comfortable, engaging environment for young patients while conducting thorough eye examinations.

Up to 80% of learning is visual, making regular eye exams crucial for academic success and overall development. Many vision problems in children go unnoticed because they don’t realize their vision isn’t normal. Our children’s eye exams check for:

  • Nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism
  • Lazy eye and crossed eyes
  • Eye coordination and tracking abilities
  • Color vision deficiencies
  • Overall eye health

Good News: Children’s eye exams are covered by Alberta Health Care for one comprehensive exam per year.

Contact Lenses

If you’re considering contact lenses, the cost structure is slightly different from a standard eye exam. Contact lens evaluations require additional testing and fitting procedures, typically costing an additional $75-$90 beyond a standard eye exam.

We offer:

  • Daily disposable lenses for maximum convenience
  • Monthly contact lenses that are cost-effective
  • Toric lenses for astigmatism
  • Multifocal contacts for presbyopia
  • Specialty lenses for unique vision needs

Our optometrists will help you find the perfect contact lenses for your lifestyle.

Dry Eye Treatment

Dry eye syndrome affects millions of Canadians. If you’re experiencing symptoms like burning, itching, redness, or fluctuating vision, you may benefit from our specialized dry eye treatments. Our comprehensive dry eye assessments identify root causes using advanced diagnostic technology. Treatment options include:

  • Prescription eye drops
  • Lid hygiene and warm compress therapy
  • Nutritional supplements
  • In-office treatments
  • Lifestyle modifications

Glasses & Frames

After your eye exam, you’ll have access to our extensive selection of eyewear. From designer brands to affordable everyday options, our clinic features frames for all ages and preferences. We offer:

  • Single vision lenses
  • Progressive no-line bifocals
  • Blue light protection
  • Anti-reflective coating
  • Photochromic lenses that adjust to light
  • High-index lenses for strong prescriptions

Why Choose Erin Ridge Vision Care in St. Albert

When it comes to your vision, you deserve a trusted partner who puts your eye health first. Here’s what sets us apart:

  • Experienced, caring optometrists with years of expertise
  • Advanced diagnostic technology for accurate assessments
  • Comprehensive services under one roof
  • Transparent, fair pricing with no hidden fees
  • Direct insurance billing for your convenience
  • Accepting new patients in St. Albert
  • Convenient location with flexible appointment times

Visit Erin Ridge Vision Care Our St. Albert Location

Contact Information

Name: Erin Ridge Vision Care
Address: 1115 St Albert Trl #520, St. Albert, AB T8N 7X6, Canada

 Phone: 825-401-3277

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Hours of Operation

  • Monday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Thursday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Saturday: Closed
  • Sunday: Closed

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I have an eye exam?

  • Children should have annual exams
  • Adults aged 19-64 should have exams every 1-2 years (more frequently if wearing contacts or managing eye conditions)
  • Seniors 65+ should have annual comprehensive exams

Does my insurance cover eye exams?

Most private insurance plans include vision coverage that covers all or part of your eye exam. We work with most major insurance providers and offer direct billing.

What if I don’t have insurance?

Don’t let lack of insurance prevent you from getting necessary eye care. We offer competitive pricing at Erin Ridge Vision Care, and we can discuss payment options.

Book Your Eye Exam Today

Understanding the cost of eye exams helps you plan for this important aspect of your healthcare. While prices typically range from $100-$150 for adults, remember that this investment protects one of your most precious senses, your vision.

Regular eye exams can detect serious health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and even some cancers in their early stages. Many eye diseases have no symptoms in their early phases, making routine exams essential for prevention and early intervention.

Don’t wait until you experience vision problems to book an eye exam. Proactive eye care is the best way to maintain clear, comfortable vision for years to come. Contact Erin Ridge Vision Care today to schedule your appointment. 

Ready to Book Your Eye Exam?

Call (825-401-3277) Today

✓ Accepting New Patients | ✓ Direct Insurance Billing | ✓ Convenient St. Albert Location

Written by Dr. Gill

Dr. Gill has enjoyed working at Spruce Grove Vision Care for the past six years. He grew up in Brampton, Ontario, just west of Toronto and graduated from New England College of Optometry in 2009. Before that, he earned his bachelor’s degree in health sciences at the University of Western Ontario in 2004.

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