IFHP Refugee Program Vision Coverage | Charm Optical Edmonton
Direct Billing Available at Charm Optical
A Friendly Heads-Up About Coverage Amounts
The coverage details on this page are based on publicly available information from the provider's own website. Your actual coverage may be different depending on your specific plan, your employer's selections, and when your benefit period resets.
We always recommend checking with your provider directly to confirm your exact coverage — and the easiest way is usually through their app or online portal, where you can see your remaining benefits instantly.
One more thing: we are not able to verify your insurance over the phone or by email. To check your coverage, you will need to visit us in store — we can look everything up for you right at the counter. It only takes a minute, and there is never any obligation.
About IFHP
The Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) was created in 1957 to provide temporary health coverage for refugees and protected persons arriving in Canada. The program is funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and administered by Medavie Blue Cross.
IFHP covers resettled refugees, refugee claimants, protected persons, victims of human trafficking, and immigration detainees. It is designed as a bridge — providing health coverage until provincial or territorial health insurance becomes available.
The program has had a complex history — coverage was significantly cut in 2012, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled those cuts unconstitutional in 2014, and coverage was restored in 2016. As of 2026, some changes are being introduced including co-payments for supplemental services.
Vision Coverage Details
| Service | Coverage | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Eye Examination | One full or partial exam | Every 12 months |
| Prescription Eyewear | One pair (frames + lenses) | Every 24 months |
Vision care falls under IFHP's "Supplemental Coverage" category. Basic healthcare (doctor visits, hospital stays) remains fully covered, but supplemental services like vision care may be subject to a 30% co-payment starting May 2026.
What to Bring
Bring your IFHP document (issued by IRCC) when you visit. We will verify your eligibility and coverage level through Medavie Blue Cross. If you are unsure about your status, call IFHP at 1-888-614-1880.
Welcome to Canada — we are happy to help you with your eye care needs as you get settled.
How We Bill IFHP
We process IFHP claims through Medavie Blue Cross at Charm Optical. Bring your IFHP documentation, and we will verify your coverage and submit the claim for you. If there is a co-payment required, we will let you know the amount before we proceed — no surprises.
Coverage at a Glance
Here’s what your plan typically covers when you visit Charm Optical. Coverage amounts vary by plan — check with your insurance provider for exact details.
Eye Exams
Comprehensive eye exams with a licensed optometrist, usually covered once every 12–24 months.
Prescription Glasses
Frames and lenses with your prescription. Most plans cover a set amount every 24 months.
Contact Lenses
Daily or monthly contacts. Usually covered as an alternative to glasses.
Prescription Sunglasses
Sunglasses with your prescription are covered. Non-prescription sunglasses are not eligible.
How Direct Billing Works
Bring Your Card
Just bring your insurance card when you come in. No need to call your provider or fill out any forms beforehand.
We Verify Your Coverage
We’ll look up your plan right away and let you know exactly what’s covered — no surprises.
Walk Out — We Handle the Claim
We submit the claim for you before you leave. You just pay your co-pay if there is one. Done.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Charm Optical direct bill this provider?
Yes! We direct bill right from our clinic in south Edmonton. Just bring your insurance card and we’ll submit the claim for you in real time — no paperwork to take home.
What does this plan typically cover for eye care?
Most plans cover eye exams, prescription glasses, contact lenses, and prescription sunglasses. Coverage amounts and frequency vary by plan — we recommend checking with your provider or downloading their app to see your exact benefits.
Do I need to bring anything else besides my card?
Nope — your insurance card is all we need. We’ll look up everything from there. If you have a specific benefits booklet or app showing your coverage details, that can help too, but it’s not required.
Ready to Use Your IFHP Refugee Program Vision Coverage | Charm Optical Edmonton Benefits?
Book your eye exam online in 30 seconds. Just bring your insurance card and we’ll handle everything from there.
Or call us at (780) 490-0090