When Was Your Last Eye Exam? Medi-Cal Covers More Than You Think

Spring is the perfect time for a fresh start—and that includes your eye health. At Families Together of Orange County, we want to remind you that an eye exam is more than just checking your vision—it’s a crucial part of overall health.

Why Eye Exams Are Important

Routine eye exams can help detect early signs of serious health conditions, including:

• Diabetes and high blood pressure – Changes in your eyes may reveal underlying conditions.
• Glaucoma and cataracts – Early detection can prevent vision loss.
• Refractive errors – Correcting vision problems improves daily life, school, and work performance.

Even if your vision seems fine, regular check-ups help prevent complications before they become serious.

Medi-Cal Vision Benefits

If you have full-scope Medi-Cal, you may be eligible for free or low-cost vision care, including:

1. Routine Eye Exams and Eyeglasses
   • Eye exams every 24 months to check eye health and determine prescriptions
   • More frequent exams covered if medically necessary (e.g., eye pain or blurred vision)
   • Coverage for frames and lenses through in-network providers
   • Replacement glasses covered if prescription changes, or glasses are lost, stolen, or broken
2. Other Services
   • Contact lens testing if glasses are not possible due to eye disease
   • Low vision testing for vision impairment that cannot be corrected with glasses or surgery
   • Artificial eyes and related materials for individuals who have lost an eye due to disease or injury
3. Types of Vision Care Providers
   • Optometrists – Comprehensive eye exams, glasses/contact lenses, and some eye disease management
   • Ophthalmologists – Medical doctors and surgeons for eye disease diagnosis, treatment, and surgery
   • Opticians – Fill eyeglass and contact lens prescriptions
   • Ocularists – Specialists in making and fitting artificial eyes

Eye Exams for the Whole Family

At FTOC, we make vision care simple and accessible:

• Children – Support healthy eye development and clear vision for learning
• Adults – Maintain healthy vision for daily life and work
• Seniors – Detect age-related eye conditions early for better outcomes

Tips for Healthy Eyes This Spring

1. Schedule your eye exam – Don’t wait for vision problems to appear.
2. Wear sunglasses outdoors – Protect your eyes from UV rays.
3. Eat a balanced diet – Nutrients like vitamin A and omega-3 support eye health.
4. Take screen breaks – Reduce eye strain from phones, computers, and tablets.

See Clearly This Spring

Protect your vision and overall health this season. Schedule your Medi-Cal-covered eye exam at Families Together of Orange County and enjoy clear vision and healthy eyes for the months ahead.