Community Health Center Eye Exam: How to Get Free or Low-Cost Vision Care in 2025

Eye health is essential — but for millions of Americans, the cost of an eye exam keeps them from getting the care they need.
The good news? You don’t have to skip your next eye appointment.

Across the U.S., Community Health Centers (CHCs) and nonprofit clinics are providing free or affordable eye exams for adults, seniors, and children — regardless of income or insurance status.

Here’s how to find one near you and what to expect from your visit. 👁️

What Is a Community Health Center Eye Exam?

A community health center eye exam is a low-cost or free vision screening offered through local health clinics, often funded by the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) or nonprofit organizations.

These centers focus on accessible healthcare for everyone, especially those who:

• Don’t have insurance
• Have low income
• Are on Medicaid or Medicare
• Need affordable preventive eye care

🩺 Services usually include:

• Vision screening and refraction
• Prescription for glasses or contacts
• Glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy checks
• Referrals for advanced treatment if needed

How Much Does an Eye Exam Cost at a Community Health Center?

💡 Most clinics operate on a sliding fee scale, meaning the cost depends on your income and family size.
You’ll never be turned away for inability to pay.

What to Expect During a Community Health Center Eye Exam

Your appointment will typically include:

1. Patient Intake & History – Review of your medical and vision background.
2. Vision Screening – Checking near and distance vision, color, and depth.
3. Refraction Test – Determines your eyeglass or contact lens prescription.
4. Eye Health Check – Looks for early signs of cataracts, glaucoma, or diabetic eye disease.
5. Consultation & Recommendations – Your provider will discuss results and next steps.

👩‍⚕️ Many centers also provide referrals to local optometrists for specialized treatment, often at a discounted rate.

How to Find a Community Health Center Eye Exam Near You

Finding a local clinic is easy — and often free to book.

🔎 Step-by-Step:

1. Go to EyeExamInfo.com
2. Enter your ZIP code
3. Filter by “Community Clinic” or “Free Eye Exam”
4. Choose your nearest Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC)
5. Book online or call directly

📍 Examples of U.S. Community Eye Programs:

• LA Care Health Plan – Los Angeles, CA
• NYC Health + Hospitals – New York, NY
• Neighborhood Health Centers – Ohio, Texas, Oklahoma
• Prevent Blindness America – National free eye exam network
• Lions Club Vision Assistance – Nationwide

Insurance & Payment Options

Most community health centers accept:

• Medicaid / Medicare
• CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program)
• VSP or EyeMed vision insurance
• Sliding Scale Fees based on income

💬 Even if you have no insurance, clinics can still provide care — you’ll pay what you can afford.

Pediatric & Senior Eye Exams

Community eye programs place special focus on children and seniors, who are most at risk for undiagnosed vision problems.

👧 Children’s Eye Exams

• Free under Medicaid & CHIP
• Detect lazy eye, alignment, and reading issues

👵 Senior Eye Exams

• Reduced-cost screenings for cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration
• Many centers offer free annual exams for 65+ through Medicare Advantage plans

Programs That Offer Free Eye Exams Nationwide

Here are some of the largest U.S. programs offering free or affordable vision care in 2025: