retinopathy exams

retinopathy screening

Retinal exams are painless, take less than 15 minutes, and require no dilating drops for most patients!

The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that anyone with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes receive a yearly retinal eye exam.

Eye problems caused by diabetes are called diabetic retinopathy. This can lead to sight loss if not found early; however, the eye screening test can find problems before they affect your sight. Pictures are taken from your eyes to check for any changes.

Retinopathy screenings detect a wide range of eye disorders, including:

Did you know?

• Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of preventable blindness in the United States in people 18 to 65 years of age.

• Early detection can reduce the risk of severe vision loss by 90% and significantly reduce long-term healthcare costs.

• Unfortunately, fewer than 50% of patients with diabetes get a diabetic eye screening annually.

What to Expect

Who will provide the retinal screening?

Retinopathy screenings are facilitated by a technician using a fully automated fundus camera.

How long will the screening take?

Screenings take approximately 15 minutes, including completing the paperwork.

What is the screening procedure?

• The patient will sit for 5 minutes in the darkened room to allow their eyes to dilate. We provide refresh drops to relax the eye.

• The patient places their head in the guide, and the technologist positions them for a picture.

• The camera is fully automated. It captures the image in less than 30 seconds.

• After the first image is taken, we can assess if dilation drops are required to dilate the patient’s eyes further. If so, the drops are administered, and a new image is captured.

What happens if a concern is identified?

Images are reviewed and interpreted by a State Licensed Doctor of Optometry. All patients are sent a copy of their report with any findings, normal or abnormal, and they are encouraged to follow up with their PCP and/or Eye Specialist.