122,492 sight tests recorded during quarter one 2026/27
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Health and social care
New accredited official statistics published by NISRA statisticians in the Business Services Organisation present information on ophthalmic services in Northern Ireland during quarter one 2026/27.
Key findings
During quarter one 2026/27:
- A total of 122,492 sight tests were recorded, an increase of 4.1% compared with quarter one 2025/26.
- The optometrist and ophthalmic medical practitioner headcount was 704, an increase of 2.9% compared with quarter one 2025/26.
- There were 265 ophthalmic practices, a decrease of 0.4% compared with quarter one 2025/26.
- There were 45,667 optical vouchers, an increase of 8.6% compared with quarter one 2025/26.
- There were 14,683 claims for the Northern Ireland Primary Eyecare Assessment and Referral Service, an increase of 5.4% compared with quarter one 2025/26.
- There were 192,987 claims across ophthalmic services, an increase of 4.6% compared with quarter one 2025/26.
About this publication
This publication is part of a quarterly series that provides information on selected health service ophthalmic activity carried out in Northern Ireland.
The quarterly figures may be revised when they are finalised for the end-of-year annual report.
Further information
Read the full report: Ophthalmic services for Northern Ireland, quarterly series to Q1 2026/27 - Provisional
View data tables and background information: General ophthalmic services statistics - Business Services Organisation (BSO) Website