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Optical coverage

Last updated on April 11, 2024

Everyone who receives income or disability assistance gets specified optical services. Tell the eye clinic you are in receipt of assistance and give them your BC Services Card. They’ll verify your coverage with Pacific Blue Cross.

Adults

When you receive assistance or medical services only, you can get:

  • Up to $48.90 for routine eye exams once every two years
  • New eyeglasses, up to the ministry’s maximum rate
  • New lenses if your eye doctor confirms a change in your prescription
  • Necessary repairs to lenses or frames
  • A case for new glasses or lenses
  • Routine eye exams for seniors, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP), which covers medically necessary eye exams for everyone, regardless of age

Children

Children under 19 in families who receive assistance get:

  • Routine eye exams for children, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)
  • New eyeglasses, up to the ministry’s maximum rate

If you have questions about your optical coverage:

Money for optical services is paid by the ministry directly to the optometrist or optician.

Fee schedules determine the maximum amount the ministry will pay for services. You may be responsible for any additional costs.

Contact information

Get help and answers to your questions at your local office or:

Toll Free
1-866-866-0800