Eye Care Resources
Retinopathy may occur in people with diabetes and can be prevented by regular eye exams. All people with diabetes are covered by OHIP for a yearly eye exam. Optometrists can provide an eye exam, covered by OHIP, but may charge an additional fee for special tests to look at the retina. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors specializing in diseases and conditions of the eyes. Their services are covered by OHIP, but require a referral from your physician.
Find an Optometrist in Your Area
Optometrists perform eye exams and vision tests, prescribe and dispense corrective lenses, detect eye abnormalities, and some can prescribe medications for eye diseases. Many people confuse the responsibilities of an optometrist and an ophthalmologist. Optometrists are not medical doctors.
Click here to provide some additional information to help find an optometrist near you.
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Find an Ophthalmologist in Your Area
Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who can provide corrective vision services (eyeglasses or contacts) or perform laser- assisted or vision correcting surgeries. They may also operate to treat such disorders as cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, macular degeneration, or strabismus (crossed eyes).
If interested in a referral for an ophthalmologist, you need a referral from a physician or nurse practitioner. Click here and ask your physician to fill out the referral form.
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Additional Eye Care Resources
Ocular Health Centres partner with the Ontario Telemedicine Network (OTN) and local ophthalmologists to provide timely access to screening and treatment for patients with diabetes. Your retinal screening is done by qualified technicians and viewed by an ophthalmologist remotely. If treatment is required, it is performed locally. This service is covered by OHIP.
The Waterloo Optometry Clinics offer patient care services to people from the community, the province and other parts of Canada. Patient examinations are performed by 3rd and 4th year interns working under the direct supervision of licensed Doctors of Optometry. To make an appointment with the clinic or for more information call 519-888-4062. Low vision services are also available. Contact the Centre by calling 519-888-4708 to book an appointment for a low vision assessment or for more information.
Canada’s National Institute for the Blind provides services and support for individuals with vision loss. Contact the CNIB Helpline at 1-800-563-2642 for more information. Click here to learn more about CNIB's Eye Connect: Diabetic Retinopathy.
Low Vision Rehabilitation
Learn more about the definitions and meanings behind a diagnosis of Low Vision, where to access care, and what can be done to help. Click here for a helpful list of websites for more information.
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