FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions About Listowel Vision Care

What is the difference between an Optometrist, an Ophthalmologist and Optician?

An optometrist is a doctor of optometry who examines patients in order to diagnose, treat, manage and prevent diseases and disorders of the eye and vision system and its related structures. An optometrist may also prescribe drugs for the treatment of eye conditions and provide, fit and adjust eyeglasses, contact lenses or subnormal vision devices for patients who require them.

An ophthalmologist is a physician who, upon graduation from medical school, undertakes several years of post-graduate training in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the eye. As well as diagnosing and treating ocular disease either by medical or surgical means, ophthalmologists may offer oculo-visual assessment, which includes prescription for corrective lenses.

An optician provides, fits and adjusts eyeglasses, contact lenses or subnormal vision devices on the prescription of an optometrist or physician.

 

When Should you See an Optometrist?

The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends the following as a general guide: 

  • The CAO recommends an eye exam as early as 3 months old.
  • Preschool (2 to 5 years) at age 3, and prior to entering elementary school.
  • School age (6 to 18 years) annually.
  • Adult (19 to 64 years) every one to two years.
  • Older adult (65 years and older annually.
  • People with ocular or medical health conditions as determined by your eye doctor.

Do You Offer Direct Billing?

 

Yes, we conveniently direct-bill to the following Insurance providers:
 

  • Chambers of Commerce Groups
  • CINUP
  • Claim Secure
  • Cowan
  • Desjardin Insurance
  • First Canadian
  • Great-West Life
  • Group Health
  • Group Source
  • Industrial Alliance
  • Johnson Inc
  • Manion
  • Manulife Financial
  • Maximum Benefit
  • Johnston Group
  • Standard Life
  • Sun Life Financial
  • SSQ Financial Group
  • Green Shield

Where Listowel and area families have been coming for their eye care since 1949.