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CHANGES TO ALBERTA HEALTH CARE BILLING
We want to keep our patients informed of recent funding cuts to optometry, effective February 1, 2025. Alberta Health Services has not increased any compensation since 2017, despite overall inflation of 21.5% in Alberta in that timeframe. Recently they surprised us with multiple cuts for various procedures and appointments, as high as 32% cut in some cases. They have also restricted the number and types of appointments that they will cover. Since we cannot fully absorb this compensation decrease and maintain the same quality of care you’ve come to expect from Optometrists’ Clinic Inc, we will be instituting balance billing. We are trying our best to minimize the impact to patients, some of whom have been seeing us for decades! We would like to thank you for your support over the years and look forward to taking care of your eyes in the future. If you have concerns about these changes, please consider contacting your local MLA.
EYE DISEASES
What you need to know about eye diseases
Learn about Common Eye Diseases from Optometrists Clinic Inc: Edmonton
Below are descriptions of various – and serious – common eye diseases and injuries. If you are exhibiting any of the symptoms described here, do not wait – contact us in Edmonton to make an appointment.
Cataracts:
As we age, the lens within the eye can become yellowed or cloudy. It is also common in diseases like diabetes or can be caused by certain medications. Cataracts tend to obscure vision, much like a dirty windshield on a car. For most, it is a natural part of the ageing process and is correctable.
Macular Degeneration:
Behind the retina, there is another tissue layer that is partly responsible for feeding the retina. Over time this layer can weaken and develop holes and cracks, which starves the portions of the retina directly in front of it. This starved retina eventually loses its sensitivity to light, and central vision slowly deteriorates. This is known as the “dry form” of macular degeneration. As time goes on, weak blood vessels grow through these cracks and bleed, causing large areas of scarring in the retina. This is known as the “wet form” of macular degeneration. Genetics, age, nutrition, smoking and exposure to the sun may cause this condition.
Glaucoma:
Inside our eyes, there is an amount of built up pressure to keep the eye’s shape, much like air pressure within a balloon. Occasionally, the pressure builds up as a result of increased fluid production or decreased drainage within the eye. Over time, the elevated pressure can cause irreversible damage to the fragile nerve and retinal fibres. This results in a slow progressive and permanent loss of vision. Early detection and treatment of glaucoma can slow or possibly stop the disease.
Retinal Detachment:
The retina is a thin tissue layer that can develop holes or even tears from numerous causes. These gaps allow fluid to seep underneath and separate the retina from the rest of the eye much like wallpaper peeling off a damp wall. When the retina has detached, vision is lost.
Posterior Vitreous Detachment:
Posterior vitreous detachment occurs in most individuals over the age of 65. As we age, the gelatinous vitreous loses its consistency so that the central core becomes more liquid and the outer layers peel from the retina. This does not cause vision loss.
Diabetic Eye Disease and Diabetic Retinopathy:
Increased blood sugars affect the blood circulation system in the eye, causing blood vessels to weaken and leak. This compliation of diabetes is known as diabetic retinopathy. This leads to swelling of the retina which causes loss of vision. Other conditions more likely to develop as a result of diabetes include cataracts, glaucoma and retinal detachments.
Dry Eye:
The tear film is responsible for keeping the eye’s surface well lubricated. Inconsistencies or insufficiencies within the tear film can cause symptoms such as stinging, burning and scratchiness.
Blepharitis:
Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelids usually caused by blocked oil glands that lie within the eyelids. Severe cases can result in bacterial infections, styes, corneal inflammation (keratitis) and conjunctivitis.
Pink Eye:
This is caused by a viral or bacterial infection of the conjunctiva (the layer above the white of the eye or sclera). Viral infections are usually associated with a cold or sore throat. Bacterial conjunctivitis varies in severity which is dependent on the type of bacteria involved. Bacteria most often involved are staphylococcus and streptococcus (staph and strep).
Myopia Control for Children:
Myopia predominantly affects children – and most pediatric cases go unnoticed and undiagnosed. Myopia in children can lead to more severe eye diseases later in life, even blindness, if left untreated. At Optometrists’ Clinic Inc. in Edmonton, we can diagnose myopia in your child and determine the best way forward to help preserve and protect your child’s vision.