2026 report explores how British Columbians are navigating a changing eye health landscape
British Columbians overwhelmingly value their eye health, but new research reveals a growing gap between concern and action as people navigate access to care, uncertainty about when and where to seek urgent help, and new information sources on eye health.
The BC Doctors of Optometry (BCDO) conducts its annual Eye Health Perception Survey to better understand how British Columbians think about, access and navigate eye care – uncovering opportunities to strengthen awareness, provide trusted guidance and support timely access to professional eye care.
Read the full report: The Changing View of Eye Health
Key Findings from the 2026 changing view of eye health report
British Columbians care about their eye health, but fewer are getting eye exams.
Ninety-four per cent of British Columbians say maintaining their eye health is important, yet only 53% have had a comprehensive eye exam in the past year, down from 57% in 2025.
British Columbians don’t always think of optometrists first for urgent eye care.
Uncertainty about urgent symptoms and the role of optometrists appears to be shaping where British Columbians seek help. Nearly three-quarters (72%) would consider going to an emergency room first, while 58% would prefer a walk-in clinic or urgent care.
AI is becoming a new front door to eye health information.
Nearly four in 10 British Columbians (39%) have used AI for eye health, rising to 61% of Gen Z and 52% of Millennials. But use does not necessarily equal trust: 38% trust AI to provide accurate eye health information, while 47% do not. Even if AI suggested their symptoms were not serious, nearly half (49%) would still consult an optometrist.
Trusted guidance and timely access can help British Columbians take action on their eye health.
The findings point to an opportunity to help British Columbians translate the importance they place on eye health into timely, informed action. Greater awareness of when and where to seek care, alongside trusted professional guidance, can help people make confident decisions about their eye health.
Read the full report
By surveying British Columbians how they think about and navigate eye health, BCDO can identify opportunities to strengthen awareness and help people make informed decisions about their care. BCDO uses these insights to inform public education, strengthen understanding of the role of optometrists and support better access to timely, appropriate eye care across the province.
About the Survey
The 2026 BCDO Eye Health Perception Survey, conducted with Leger Opinion, surveyed 2,002 British Columbians from May 4 to May 19, 2026, with respondents representative of the population across the province.