The NI PEARS service is for patients who develop a sudden eye condition such as:

• Red eye(s)
• Pain and/or discomfort in the eyes, or around the eye area
• Sudden reduction in vision in one or both eyes
• Recent onset or sudden increase of flashes and/or floaters in one or both eyes
• Something in your eye that you can’t remove yourself

If you are unsure whether your symptoms qualify you for an NI PEARS examination, please contact your local optometry practice for advice.

Most optometry (opticians) practices in Northern Ireland now provide the NI PEARS service.  If they do not provide the service, they will direct you to the nearest practice that does provide the service.

Appointments are available during normal working hours and you will be seen within 48 hours.

Patients who can be seen via NI PEARS:

• Patients aged over 5 years old.
• Patients who have a current NI Health & Care number.
• Patients who have experienced a NEW sudden onset eye related problem - with symptoms present for 14 days or less.
• Patients who have recently been treated for the eye condition by a GP or Pharmacist and symptoms are still present for 6 weeks or less.

*Patients who have already accessed the NI PEARS service in the previous 12 months are excluded.

Full details of this service can be found at: NI PEARS Scheme - DOH/HSCNI Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG)