![Eye Checkup Cost in the Philippines [2026 Price Guide]](/_next/image?url=%2Fblog-images%2Feye-checkup-cost-philippines.jpeg&w=3840&q=75)
Eye Checkup Cost in the Philippines [2026 Price Guide]
Quick Answer: An eye checkup in the Philippines costs ₱500-₱3,000 depending on the type of exam and provider. A basic refraction test (for eyeglass prescription) at an optical shop costs ₱200-₱500 and is often free with eyeglass purchase. A comprehensive eye exam by an optometrist costs ₱500-₱1,200. A full ophthalmologist consultation with specialized testing costs ₱1,000-₱3,000. Premium eye centers like Asian Eye Institute, The Eye Institute at St. Luke's, and Peregrine Eye and Laser Institute charge ₱1,500-₱3,000 for comprehensive evaluations.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What Is an Eye Checkup?
- Price Breakdown by Type
- What Is Included in the Price
- Additional Costs to Expect
- Price by City
- Top Eye Clinics and Centers
- PhilHealth Coverage for Eye Exams
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Introduction
Good vision is something most people take for granted — until they start experiencing blurring, eye strain, headaches, or difficulty seeing at night. Regular eye checkups can detect vision problems early and catch serious eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy before they cause irreversible damage. Yet many Filipinos skip routine eye exams because they are unsure about the cost or where to go.
The truth is that eye checkups in the Philippines are surprisingly affordable. A basic eye exam for an eyeglass prescription costs as little as ₱200-₱500 and is often free at optical shops when you purchase eyeglasses. A comprehensive eye exam by a licensed optometrist runs ₱500-₱1,200, while a specialist ophthalmologist consultation with advanced diagnostic testing costs ₱1,000-₱3,000.
This guide covers the full range of eye checkup costs in the Philippines in 2026, explains the difference between optometrist and ophthalmologist exams, and lists the best eye clinics by city. For patients considering vision correction procedures, see our guides on LASIK cost and cataract surgery cost.
What Is an Eye Checkup?
An eye checkup is a comprehensive evaluation of your vision and overall eye health performed by an eye care professional — either an optometrist or an ophthalmologist. The exam goes beyond simply checking whether you need glasses; it evaluates the internal and external structures of the eye, tests for eye diseases, and assesses how well your eyes work together.
Optometrists are licensed healthcare professionals who specialize in vision care and eye health. They perform eye exams, prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses, diagnose common eye conditions, and can prescribe eye medications. In the Philippines, optometrists complete a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree.
Ophthalmologists are medical doctors (MD) who specialize in eye and vision care. They can do everything an optometrist does, plus perform eye surgeries (cataract surgery, LASIK, glaucoma surgery) and manage complex eye diseases. Ophthalmologist consultations are more expensive because of their additional medical training and the specialized diagnostic equipment in their clinics.
A routine eye checkup should be done every 1-2 years for adults with no known eye problems, and annually for people over 40, diabetics, those with a family history of eye disease, and contact lens wearers. Children should have their first comprehensive eye exam by age 3-5.
Price Breakdown by Type
Basic Refraction / Visual Acuity Test (₱200-₱500)
A basic refraction test determines your eyeglass or contact lens prescription. It involves reading letters on an eye chart (Snellen chart), looking through a phoropter (the device with multiple lenses), and having the optometrist or optician find the lens combination that gives you the clearest vision. This is the most basic and affordable eye test. Many optical shops in malls (EO Executive Optical, Ideal Vision, Sarabia Optical) offer free refraction when you purchase eyeglasses.
Best for: Updating your eyeglass prescription, checking if you need glasses, quick vision screening.
Comprehensive Optometric Eye Exam (₱500-₱1,200)
A comprehensive eye exam by an optometrist goes beyond refraction to include a thorough evaluation of your eye health. It typically includes visual acuity testing, refraction, eye muscle coordination tests, pupil response evaluation, slit-lamp examination (microscopic examination of the front eye structures), tonometry (eye pressure measurement for glaucoma screening), and basic fundoscopy (examination of the retina). This exam takes 30-45 minutes and provides a complete picture of both your vision and eye health.
Best for: Annual eye exam, first-time eye checkup, general eye health screening, contact lens fitting.
Ophthalmologist Consultation (₱1,000-₱2,000)
A consultation with an ophthalmologist (eye doctor/MD) includes a comprehensive eye exam plus additional clinical evaluation. The ophthalmologist can diagnose and manage complex eye conditions including cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and retinal disorders. The professional fee reflects the ophthalmologist's medical training and the more advanced diagnostic equipment used. Follow-up visits are typically charged at the same rate.
Best for: Suspected eye diseases, diabetes-related eye screening, family history of glaucoma, complex eye conditions.
Comprehensive Eye Evaluation with Specialized Tests (₱1,500-₱3,000)
A comprehensive evaluation at a specialized eye center includes all the components of an ophthalmologist consultation plus advanced diagnostic tests. These may include optical coherence tomography (OCT), visual field testing (perimetry), corneal topography, fundus photography, and pachymetry. This level of examination is recommended for patients being evaluated for eye surgery, those with known eye diseases, diabetics, and patients over 60.
Best for: Pre-LASIK evaluation, glaucoma assessment, diabetic retinopathy screening, macular degeneration, pre-cataract surgery workup.
Specialized Diagnostic Tests (Individual Pricing)
Individual specialized diagnostic tests may be ordered separately depending on your condition:
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): ₱1,500-₱3,000 — detailed imaging of the retina and optic nerve
- Visual Field Test (Perimetry): ₱800-₱2,000 — maps peripheral vision loss (essential for glaucoma)
- Fundus Photography: ₱500-₱1,500 — photographs of the retina for documentation and comparison
- Corneal Topography: ₱800-₱2,000 — maps the curvature of the cornea (required for contact lens fitting and LASIK evaluation)
- A-Scan / B-Scan Ultrasound: ₱800-₱2,000 — imaging of internal eye structures
- Fluorescein Angiography: ₱3,000-₱5,000 — specialized imaging of retinal blood vessels
Price Comparison Table
| Eye Exam Type | Price Range | Duration | Provider | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic refraction | ₱200 - ₱500 (often free) | 10-15 min | Optometrist/Optician | Eyeglass prescription |
| Comprehensive optometric exam | ₱500 - ₱1,200 | 30-45 min | Optometrist | Annual eye health check |
| Ophthalmologist consultation | ₱1,000 - ₱2,000 | 30-45 min | Ophthalmologist (MD) | Eye disease evaluation |
| Comprehensive evaluation + tests | ₱1,500 - ₱3,000 | 45-90 min | Eye center | Surgery assessment, diseases |
| OCT scan | ₱1,500 - ₱3,000 | 15-20 min | Eye center | Retina/optic nerve imaging |
| Visual field test | ₱800 - ₱2,000 | 20-30 min | Eye center | Glaucoma monitoring |
What Is Included in the Price
A comprehensive eye exam fee at a clinic or eye center typically includes:
- Visual acuity testing (distance and near vision)
- Refraction for eyeglass/contact lens prescription
- Eye muscle coordination and alignment evaluation
- Pupil response assessment
- Slit-lamp examination of the anterior eye (cornea, iris, lens)
- Intraocular pressure measurement (tonometry) for glaucoma screening
- Basic fundoscopy (retinal examination)
- Discussion of findings and recommendations
- Written prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses (if needed)
At specialized eye centers, the comprehensive evaluation fee may also include select advanced diagnostic tests. Confirm what is included when booking your appointment, as some centers bill diagnostic tests separately.
Additional Costs to Expect
- Eyeglasses: ₱1,500-₱10,000+ depending on frame and lens type (single vision, bifocal, progressive, blue light filter, photochromic)
- Contact lenses: ₱500-₱3,000 per box depending on type (daily, bi-weekly, monthly) and brand
- Contact lens fitting fee: ₱300-₱800 separate from the eye exam at some clinics
- Eye drops for dilation: ₱100-₱300 if dilation is needed during the exam (some clinics include this)
- Specialized diagnostic tests: ₱800-₱5,000 each if ordered by the doctor (OCT, visual field, etc.)
- Follow-up visits: ₱500-₱2,000 per visit for ongoing monitoring of eye conditions
- Eye medications: ₱200-₱2,000+ per month for prescribed eye drops (glaucoma, dry eye, etc.)
- Surgery (if needed): LASIK ₱30,000-₱90,000; cataract surgery ₱30,000-₱80,000 per eye
Price by City
Eye checkup pricing follows the general healthcare cost trend across the Philippines.
| City | Optometric Exam | Ophthalmologist Consultation | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro Manila | ₱600 - ₱1,200 | ₱1,200 - ₱2,000 | Most eye centers and subspecialists |
| Cebu City | ₱500 - ₱1,000 | ₱1,000 - ₱1,800 | Several major eye clinics |
| Davao City | ₱500 - ₱900 | ₱800 - ₱1,500 | Growing eye care infrastructure |
| Clark/Pampanga | ₱400 - ₱900 | ₱800 - ₱1,500 | Fewer specialized eye centers |
| Provincial areas | ₱300 - ₱700 | ₱500 - ₱1,200 | Optical shops common, fewer ophthalmologists |
Top Eye Clinics and Centers
1. Asian Eye Institute — Makati City
- Address: 9th Floor, Phinma Plaza, Rockwell Center, Makati City
- Price Range: ₱1,500-₱2,500 (comprehensive exam); ₱2,000-₱3,000 (with specialized tests)
- Key Features: World-class eye center, full subspecialty ophthalmology, LASIK center, retina specialists
- PhilHealth Accredited: Yes
- Standout Feature: The premier eye center in the Philippines with internationally trained ophthalmologists covering every subspecialty — cornea, retina, glaucoma, pediatric ophthalmology, oculoplastics, and neuro-ophthalmology. Their diagnostic equipment is among the most advanced in Southeast Asia. They set the standard for eye care quality in the country.
2. The Eye Institute — St. Luke's Medical Center, QC / BGC
- Address: E. Rodriguez Sr. Ave., QC / 32nd St. & 5th Ave., BGC, Taguig
- Price Range: ₱1,200-₱2,000 (consultation); ₱1,800-₱3,000 (with specialized tests)
- Key Features: Hospital-based eye center, full diagnostic equipment, surgical capabilities
- PhilHealth Accredited: Yes
- Standout Feature: Integrated within St. Luke's Medical Center, making it ideal for patients with systemic conditions (diabetes, hypertension) that affect the eyes. The eye institute offers comprehensive diagnostic services and seamless referral to other hospital specialists when needed.
View full profile on ClinicFinderPH
3. Peregrine Eye and Laser Institute — Makati City
- Address: Unit 501, Medical Plaza Makati, Amorsolo cor. De la Rosa Sts., Makati City
- Price Range: ₱1,200-₱2,000 (comprehensive exam); ₱1,800-₱2,500 (with specialized tests)
- Key Features: LASIK and refractive surgery center, cornea specialists, modern diagnostic equipment
- PhilHealth Accredited: Yes
- Standout Feature: A leading refractive surgery center with expertise in LASIK, PRK, and ICL procedures. Their comprehensive pre-surgical eye evaluations are among the most thorough in the Philippines, using the latest corneal topography and wavefront technology. Also handles routine eye exams and general ophthalmology.
View full profile on ClinicFinderPH
4. EO Executive Optical — Multiple Branches Nationwide
- Address: Multiple locations — SM malls, Ayala malls, and standalone branches nationwide
- Price Range: ₱300-₱500 (optometric exam); free refraction with eyeglass purchase
- Key Features: Largest optical chain in the Philippines, walk-in friendly, same-day eyeglasses
- PhilHealth Accredited: No (optical retail)
- Standout Feature: The most accessible and affordable eye exam option in the Philippines with branches in virtually every major mall. Their optometrists perform reliable refraction and basic eye exams, and free refraction is offered with any eyeglass purchase. The best choice for patients who primarily need an updated eyeglass prescription.
5. Cebu Eye Institute — Cebu City
- Address: Cebu Business Park, Cebu City
- Price Range: ₱1,000-₱1,800 (comprehensive exam); ₱1,500-₱2,500 (with specialized tests)
- Key Features: Dedicated eye center, subspecialty ophthalmology, LASIK, cataract surgery
- PhilHealth Accredited: Yes
- Standout Feature: The leading dedicated eye center in the Visayas region, offering the full range of ophthalmic services from routine exams to advanced surgery. Their ophthalmologists are fellowship-trained in various subspecialties, providing Metro Manila-level care in Cebu at slightly lower prices.
6. Davao Eye Center — Davao City
- Address: J.P. Laurel Ave., Bajada, Davao City
- Price Range: ₱800-₱1,500 (comprehensive exam); ₱1,200-₱2,000 (with specialized tests)
- Key Features: Mindanao's premier eye center, full diagnostic capabilities, cataract and LASIK surgery
- PhilHealth Accredited: Yes
- Standout Feature: The leading eye care facility in Mindanao with comprehensive diagnostic and surgical capabilities. Offers competitive pricing — generally 15-25% lower than Metro Manila eye centers — while maintaining comparable equipment and expertise.
Comparison Table
| Eye Center | Location | Comprehensive Exam | With Specialized Tests | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asian Eye Institute | Makati | ₱1,500 - ₱2,500 | ₱2,000 - ₱3,000 | Premier eye center, all subspecialties |
| The Eye Institute (St. Luke's) | QC / BGC | ₱1,200 - ₱2,000 | ₱1,800 - ₱3,000 | Hospital-integrated care |
| Peregrine Eye and Laser | Makati | ₱1,200 - ₱2,000 | ₱1,800 - ₱2,500 | LASIK/refractive surgery leader |
| EO Executive Optical | Nationwide | ₱300 - ₱500 | N/A | Most affordable, free refraction |
| Cebu Eye Institute | Cebu | ₱1,000 - ₱1,800 | ₱1,500 - ₱2,500 | Leading Visayas eye center |
| Davao Eye Center | Davao | ₱800 - ₱1,500 | ₱1,200 - ₱2,000 | Premier Mindanao eye center |
PhilHealth Coverage for Eye Exams
Routine outpatient eye exams are generally not covered by PhilHealth as standalone services. PhilHealth eye-related benefits apply in specific situations:
- Inpatient eye surgery: Cataract surgery performed during hospital confinement is covered under PhilHealth case rates (up to ₱16,000 per eye for cataract surgery with IOL implant).
- Z-benefit packages: Selected ophthalmologic conditions may be covered under specific PhilHealth benefit packages.
- Primary Care Benefit: Basic eye screening may be available through the PhilHealth Konsulta package at accredited primary care providers.
For routine eye exams and eyeglass prescriptions, expect to pay out of pocket. The cost is modest — ₱500-₱1,200 for a comprehensive optometric exam — and should be viewed as an investment in preventing more costly eye conditions down the line.
HMO Coverage
Many HMO plans include annual eye exams as part of preventive care benefits. Some plans also provide eyeglass or contact lens allowances (₱2,000-₱5,000 per year). Check your HMO plan for specific eye care coverage and accredited optical shops or eye centers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an eye checkup cost in the Philippines?
An eye checkup in the Philippines costs ₱200-₱3,000 depending on the type of exam. A basic refraction at an optical shop costs ₱200-₱500 (often free with eyeglass purchase). A comprehensive optometric exam costs ₱500-₱1,200. An ophthalmologist consultation costs ₱1,000-₱2,000. A comprehensive evaluation with specialized diagnostic tests at a premium eye center costs ₱1,500-₱3,000. The cost increases with the depth of examination and the sophistication of the diagnostic equipment used. Annual eye exams at an optometrist are the best value for routine eye health monitoring.
How often should I get my eyes checked?
Adults with no known eye problems should have a comprehensive eye exam every 1-2 years. Annual exams are recommended for people over 40 (when age-related conditions like presbyopia, cataracts, and glaucoma become more common), diabetics (diabetic retinopathy screening), contact lens wearers, and anyone with a family history of glaucoma or macular degeneration. Children should have their first comprehensive eye exam by age 3-5 and every 1-2 years thereafter. If you experience sudden vision changes, eye pain, flashes of light, or floaters, see an eye doctor immediately — do not wait for your next scheduled exam.
What is the difference between an optometrist and an ophthalmologist?
An optometrist holds a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree and specializes in vision care — eye exams, eyeglass and contact lens prescriptions, and diagnosing common eye conditions. An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor (MD) with specialized training in eye diseases and surgery — they can perform everything an optometrist does plus eye surgeries (cataract, LASIK, glaucoma) and manage complex eye diseases. For routine eye exams and eyeglass prescriptions, an optometrist is sufficient and more affordable. For suspected eye diseases, surgical evaluations, or diabetes-related eye screening, an ophthalmologist is recommended.
Do I need an eye exam if my vision seems fine?
Yes. Many serious eye conditions — including glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and early cataracts — develop gradually and cause no noticeable symptoms until significant damage has occurred. Glaucoma, for example, can destroy 40% of your peripheral vision before you notice any change. A comprehensive eye exam can detect these conditions early when treatment is most effective. Even if your distance and near vision seem clear, regular eye exams are important for overall eye health monitoring, especially as you age.
Can I get my eyes checked at an optical shop for free?
Many optical chains in the Philippines — such as EO Executive Optical, Ideal Vision, and Sarabia Optical — offer free basic refraction (vision testing for eyeglass prescription) when you purchase eyeglasses. This is a quick 10-15 minute test focused on determining your prescription. However, a free refraction at an optical shop is not a substitute for a comprehensive eye exam. It does not include glaucoma screening, retinal examination, or eye disease evaluation. For a thorough assessment of your eye health, schedule a comprehensive eye exam with an optometrist (₱500-₱1,200) or ophthalmologist (₱1,000-₱2,000).
What should I bring to an eye exam?
Bring your current eyeglasses or contact lenses (and your contact lens case and solution if you wear contacts), any previous eye exam records or prescriptions, a list of current medications, your HMO card (if applicable), and any relevant medical records (especially if you have diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of eye disease). If your eyes will be dilated during the exam, bring sunglasses for comfort afterward and consider having someone drive you home, as dilation temporarily blurs near vision and increases light sensitivity for 4-6 hours.
How long does an eye checkup take?
A basic refraction at an optical shop takes 10-15 minutes. A comprehensive optometric exam takes 30-45 minutes. An ophthalmologist consultation takes 30-45 minutes. A comprehensive evaluation with specialized tests (OCT, visual field, corneal topography) can take 60-90 minutes. If your eyes are dilated — which requires pupil-dilating drops and a 20-30 minute wait — add an additional 30 minutes to the total visit time. Plan accordingly and avoid scheduling activities that require sharp near vision immediately after a dilated eye exam.
At what age should children have their first eye exam?
Children should have their first comprehensive eye exam by age 3-5, before entering school. Vision problems — particularly amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (crossed eyes), and significant refractive errors — are best treated when detected early in childhood. Warning signs that a child may need an eye exam include squinting, sitting too close to the TV, holding books very close, frequent eye rubbing, headaches, tilting the head, and poor performance in school. Pediatric ophthalmologists and optometrists in the Philippines can examine children as young as 6 months for certain conditions.
Conclusion
Regular eye checkups are one of the most affordable and impactful preventive health investments you can make. With comprehensive optometric exams available for as little as ₱500-₱1,200 in the Philippines, there is no reason to skip this essential health screening. For routine vision checks and eyeglass prescriptions, an optometrist provides excellent care at an accessible price. For patients with eye diseases, diabetes, or those considering vision correction surgery, an ophthalmologist consultation at a specialized eye center is worth the additional cost.
Do not wait until you notice vision problems — many serious eye conditions are silent in their early stages. Schedule an annual eye exam, especially if you are over 40 or have risk factors for eye disease.
For more information on eye care costs, check out these related guides:
- Eye clinics in Cebu
- Eye clinics in Manila
- Cataract surgery cost in the Philippines
- LASIK cost in the Philippines
Ready to find an eye clinic near you? Browse eye care clinics on ClinicFinderPH to compare doctors, prices, and services.