Optometry Scotland is pleased to share insights from our Chair, Eilidh Thomson, as featured in Optician Online’s recent Optical Outlook for 2026 discussion, where eye care leadership across the UK highlights key priorities for the year ahead.
In this article, senior figures from across the optical sector explore what 2026 may hold, including the continuing impact of digital innovation and AI, shifts towards enhanced community-based care, and the evolving role of optometry within primary care settings..
Her contribution reinforces OS’s strategic focus on:
- Strengthening community optometry’s role in primary care, to meet rising patient needs and complexity of care.
- Embedding advanced clinical skills (such as independent prescribing) across the workforce to improve diagnostic and treatment capacity.
- Ensuring the profession can lead innovation responsibly and safely, with the right training, funding and infrastructure in place.
We encourage members and colleagues across the sector to read the full Optical Outlook for 2026 feature to explore the broader perspectives shaping our profession.
Read the full article here.
As the representative body for the optometry sector in Scotland, Optometry Scotland welcomes open dialogue with our members as we continue to represent their interests and advocate for eye care that delivers better outcomes for patients and communities.
If you would like to discuss anything further, please get in touch with your organisation’s OS Representative or Regional OS Representative, or contact us at office@optometryscotland.org.uk.