Ontario Works/Welfare for Dentist/ Optometrist?

Question

I have a friend who is an Ontario Works/ Welfare recipent. Because she is new to the program she is unsure of how to go about receiving certain health benefits. Right now, she has a dental emergency - i think its her wisdom tooth and it is causing her entire right side of her face to swell up plus causing her extreme pain. Is this covered under OW? And how should she go about dealing with this?

As well, is getting an eye check up covered under OW?

p.s. she lives in the London, ontario.

Any help would be appreciated. I couldn't find much info online and she cant even speak (on account of the swollen face) to call OW

- thanks

Answer 1

I used to be on OW too. Your friend should get a dental card with her check. Tell her to take that to the dentist and they will take care of her.

As for eye exams, most places give the exam for free. If your friend needs glasses, the optometrist will give your friend a prescription which has to be taken to the OW office. They will then give out a permission slip for glasses.

Good luck to you

Answer 2

I don't know how Ontario Works works as far as optometry goes but I do know that they will cover very basic dental work such as extractions and fillings.  I have no idea who in London accepts Ontario Works because they pay next to nothing...an extraction that is normally like $100 they will pay $20 for.  What I do know for sure is if she has an emergency that the Dental School at Western has an emergency clinic, and they will accept Ontario Works.  It may be her best bet to getting something done ASAP.