When it comes to your vision, one of the first questions many patients ask is: “How much does an eye exam cost?” The answer depends on your age, your eye health, and whether additional tests are needed. At Waverley Eye Care Centre in Winnipeg, we want to be transparent about eye test fees, explain why some tests are recommended, and help you understand what’s covered by Manitoba Health and private insurance.
Eye Exam Cost for Children (18 and Under) in Winnipeg
- Basic eye exam: Covered once per year by Manitoba Health if your child has glasses.
- Recommended tests (not covered by Manitoba Health):
- Optomap retinal photos – $45
- Axial length measurement – $30
These additional tests can detect early signs of eye disease and help track myopia (nearsightedness). Children with myopia or at risk for myopia should have their axial length measured every 3 to 6 months to properly monitor progression. Waverley is one of only a few clinics in Manitoba that offers the option to have axial length measured.
Adult Eye Exam Cost (19–64) in Manitoba
- Comprehensive eye exam fee: $149 (not covered by Manitoba Health).
- Possible additional eyesight test prices:
- Annual Glaucoma workup and monitoring $85
- Annual Macular Degeneration workup and monitoring: $85
Not every adult needs every test. At Waverley Eye Care Centre, we only recommend extra testing like OCT or visual fields when your symptoms or exam results point to a need, such as screening for glaucoma or macular degeneration.
Senior Eye Exam Charges in Winnipeg (65+)
- Basic senior eye exam tests: Covered by Manitoba Health.
- Additional charges for senior eye test: $65
Why? Manitoba Health has not updated its definition of what is covered in a senior’s eye exam in over 30 years. Today’s standard of care includes modern technology and tests that allows us to detect and manage age-related eye conditions more effectively. The additional fees cover the tests and services that are not covered by Manitoba health. The same $65 fee applies for patients with diabetes.
Eyeglass Exam Cost and Private Insurance Coverage
Private insurance may cover part of your eye exam cost. However, most plans only allow coverage every two years. This timeline is based on insurance company policies, not on medical best practices. We recommend yearly eye exams for most patients, especially kids, seniors, and anyone with eye health concerns.
The Bottom Line on Eye Test Fees in Winnipeg
An eye exam cost in Winnipeg depends on age and health needs:
- Kids (18 and under): Covered by Manitoba Health; additional tests $30–$75.
- Adults (19–64): $149 plus other possible fees for more detailed testing for some conditions.
- Seniors (65+) & Diabetics: Manitoba Health coverage plus $65.
At Waverley Eye Care Centre, we focus on efficiency and value. We don’t do every test for every patient. Instead, we recommend only what’s necessary so you get the right balance of affordability and thorough care.
Ready to book your eye exam?
Call us today or schedule online at booking.
