Direct Billing for Eye Exams, Glasses & Contacts in Ottawa: How It Works

Short answer: At Vision Care Ottawa we bill most major vision insurers directly, so in many cases you only pay any remaining balance at checkout instead of paying in full and waiting for reimbursement. Bring your insurance details to your appointment and we'll confirm your coverage before your exam.

What does “direct billing” mean?

Direct billing means we submit the claim to your insurance provider for you, at the time of your visit. Rather than paying the full amount and filing paperwork yourself, you pay only what your plan doesn't cover. It's one less hassle around taking care of your eyes.

What can be covered?

• Eye exams — OHIP fully covers an annual exam for those 19 and under and 65 and older, and for adults 20–64 with a qualifying medical condition, at Vision Care Ottawa advanced retinal imaging is part of our eye exam and not covered by OHIP. Many private plans cover routine exams for working-age adults and advanced retinal imaging. (See our guide on how much an eye exam costs in Ottawa.)
• Eyewear — glasses and lenses are frequently covered in part by private vision benefits.
• Contact lenses — the cost of contact lenses is also often covered by private vision benefits.

Coverage varies by plan, so the fastest way to know what applies to you is to bring your details and let our team check.

How it works at your visit

1. Tell us your plan when you book (or at check-in) and bring your insurance information.
2. We verify your coverage before your exam where possible, so there are no surprises.
3. We submit the claim to your insurer at checkout.
4. You pay any remaining balance — often just the portion your plan doesn't cover.

What to bring

• Your insurance details (group and member numbers, or your benefits card)
• Your health card for any OHIP-covered portion
• Your current glasses or contacts, if you have them

Frequently asked questions

Do you bill my insurance directly?
In most cases, yes — we bill most major vision insurers directly. Bring your plan details and we'll confirm before your exam.

What if my plan isn't one you bill directly?
We'll give you an itemized receipt so you can submit the claim yourself, and our team will help you with what you need.

Does OHIP cover my eye exam?
Yes for those 19 and under and 65 and older, and for adults 20–64 with a qualifying condition. See our OHIP coverage guide. At Vision Care Ottawa advanced retinal imaging is part of our eye exam and not covered by OHIP but often covered by private insurance plans.

Questions about coverage? Contact the clinic nearest you or book your eye exam online.

Medical Disclaimer

This article is for general information only. Coverage depends on your specific insurance plan and current OHIP rules; please confirm details with your insurer and the clinic.