NIHB (First Nations & Inuit)
Pre-Approval Required — Visit Us First, Pick Up When Approved
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 NIHB
The Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program is a federal program administered by Indigenous Services Canada that provides health coverage to registered First Nations and recognized Inuit across the country. The program covers medically necessary services that are not available through provincial or territorial health plans — including vision care.
NIHB has been supporting Indigenous communities for decades, and as of the most recent data, approximately 915,000 clients are eligible for benefits. Claims are processed through Express Scripts Canada on behalf of Indigenous Services Canada.
Important — Pre-Approval Required
NIHB requires pre-approval before any eyewear can be ordered or dispensed. We cannot process orders on the same day as your visit. When you come in, bring your status card and we will submit the authorization request for you. Once approved (usually within a few business days), we will have your glasses ready to pick up.
Please plan your visit with this in mind — come in first so we can get the approval started, then come back to pick up your eyewear once it is ready.
Vision Coverage Details
| Service | Coverage | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Eye Exam (Adults) | Covered (when not covered provincially) | Every 2 years |
| Eye Exam (Under 18) | Covered | Potentially annual |
| Prescription Glasses (Adults) | One complete pair covered | Every 2 years |
| Prescription Glasses (Under 18) | One complete pair covered | Annually |
| Contact Lenses | Covered when medically required | Specific prescriptions only |
| Anti-Reflective Coating | Included | With glasses |
| Progressive Lens Upgrades | Available | With glasses |
| Eyewear Repairs | Covered | As needed |
Contact lenses are covered when medically required — typically for specific prescriptions such as high astigmatism (3.00D+), high myopia or hyperopia (7.00D+), or significant anisometropia (2.00D+ difference between eyes). Contact lens care solutions are not covered.
In 2020, NIHB reformed their eyewear benefit so clients now receive a set dollar allocation that can be used toward any prescription eyewear — giving you more choice in what you select.
What to Bring
Bring your status card when you visit. You can verify your eligibility through the NIHB web portal or by calling 1-888-441-4777.
Remember: we need to submit for pre-approval before any work can begin, so your first visit is for the exam and frame selection. Your glasses will be ready for pickup once the authorization comes through.
How NIHB Billing Works at Charm Optical
We are registered to bill NIHB directly. Here is how the process works:
- Visit 1: Come in with your status card. We do your eye exam and help you select frames and lenses.
- We submit: We send the pre-approval request to NIHB on your behalf.
- Approval: NIHB reviews and approves (usually a few business days).
- Visit 2: Come back to pick up your glasses — no cost to you within the covered amount.
If you want to upgrade beyond the covered allocation (premium frames, for example), we will let you know the exact difference before you commit.
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 NIHB (First Nations & Inuit) 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