Photo provided by Women In Optometry
April 6, 2026
Women In Optometry has released its latest industry analysis, Closing the Gaps in Eye Care: The Optometric Workforce Report 2026. The report, supported by Alcon, follows last year’s workforce report, exploring where opportunities lie in expanding access to eye care.
With optometry rising to higher prominence as the number of ophthalmologists flatline and decline, the report highlights promising pathways to address these significant gaps:
- Technology such as remote diagnostics and portable equipment, which extend clinical reach;
- School-affiliated and portable clinic models that identify and treat needs early;
- Community health centers and home-visit programs that prioritize removing barriers to care; and
- The central role of relationships that can lead to greater trust between patients and providers and better outcomes.
“None of these are quick fixes. Sustained improvements will require coordinated efforts. But even small steps can have an impact,” said Kyla Bazzy, senior editor of Women In Optometry.
Closing the Gaps in Eye Care: The Optometric Workforce Report 2026 highlights the need for clinicians, educators, industry leaders and community stakeholders to collaborate on lasting, compassionate solutions to improve access to care.
Download the free report here.
