How Often Can I Get Glasses on AISH?
The Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) program covers various allied health services such as dental and vision care. In addition to routine eye exams, AISH also covers the cost of a complete pair of glasses for anyone who needs them. However, the frequency of coverage for new glasses can be confusing for recipients. This article will provide an overview of how often you can get glasses on AISH in Alberta and what you need to do to access those benefits.
AISH Coverage Eligibility
If you are a resident of Alberta with a permanent disability or health issue that limits your ability to work and earn an income, you may be eligible for AISH coverage. If you meet the criteria, you can receive financial assistance from the government to help cover basic living costs such as food, housing and transportation. In addition, certain medical expenses, such as glasses, are also covered by AISH.
Frequency of Glasses Coverage
The frequency at which AISH covers glasses depends on age and whether your vision is stable. For adults aged 19-64, coverage is available every two years or every 24 months. Children aged 0-18 are eligible for coverage yearly or every 12 months.
Suppose you experience a significant change in your vision. In that case, you can talk to your AISH worker about getting a special exemption. This exemption would allow you to get an eye exam and a new pair of eyeglasses before your eligibility date.
Your caseworker may ask that you see an optometrist for a medically necessary eye exam to check your eye health to determine the cause of the vision change. This type of eye exam is covered under Alberta Health Care and is separate from AISH. Our optometrists can then request authorization for a new routine eye exam and a new pair of glasses.
How To Access Benefits
If you have coverage under the AISH program, it's important to know how to access benefits regarding eye exams and glasses.
To submit a claim under AISH, Helio Optometry will need to see your valid AISH card at the time of the eye exam or at the time of purchase for glasses. We also need some form of government-issued photo ID to ensure that the intended recipient (i.e. you or a family member) is accessing the benefits. Again, this is for your protection.
First and foremost, you need a valid prescription from a licensed optometrist. If you don't have one, you can learn more about booking a routine eye exam at Helio Optometry by visiting our Adult Eye Exam page. There is no difference between a routine eye exam and an AISH eye exam; every patient receives the same in-depth eye care at Helio Optometry. Your eye exam will also be covered if you haven't had a checkup using your AISH insurance in the last two years.
Our opticians will then help you to find the perfect pair of eyeglasses and take all the necessary measurements to ensure that your new prescription is filled accurately. They will also submit all the required paperwork on your behalf so that you can take delivery of your new glasses within 7-14 days.
Conclusion:
Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) assists Albertans with permanent disabilities or health issues that limit their ability to work and earn an income. At Helio Optometry, we're happy to help anyone on AISH access their benefits and find the perfect eyeglasses that fit their needs. Outside prescriptions are always welcome, or you can book a routine eye exam with one of our optometrists.
