If you have Diabetes, you are eligible for a FREE retinal screening check.

The PHO funds a mobile check at varying locations according to demand around the coast every 3 months (Hokitika, Greymouth, Westport, Reefton and South Westland). 

The dates for 2012 are as follows:

13th to 19th February 2012 (13th & 14th Franz Clinic, 15th & 16th Hokitika Health Clinic, 17th West Coast PHO Greymouth)

14th to 18th May 2012

13th to 19th August 2012

12th to 18th November 2012

What is Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy simply means disease of the retina (the seeing layer in the back of the eye).  It occurs when diabetes damages the very fine blood vessels in the retina causing difficulties with vision.  It is a common cause of blindness but is preventable.

One of the problems with the damage from diabetic retinopathy is that in early stages you will be completely unaware that there is anything wrong.  However, if it is left untreated, retinopathy gets worse.  If it is picked up in the early stages, it can be managed.

This is why the programme recommends that we photograph your retinas at least every two years, or sometimes, more frequently.

Early detection of retinopathy is important so that retinal laser treatment can be used to control the damage.  If the damage is not treated, eyesight can be lost.

People most at risk are those:

• who have had diabetes for many years;
• whose diabetes is poorly controlled, i.e. high blood glucose levels;
• who have high blood pressure.

Also - pregnancy can make diabetic retinopathy progress faster than usual.

But, everybody who has ever been diagnosed with diabetes is at risk, even a person whose diabetes is controlled with diet alone.

The most important risk factor you can change is blood glucose control.  You can also reduce blood pressure and blood fats by diet, exercise and or tablets prescribed by your doctor.

Note:  This retinal screening service is ONLY for diabetic retinopathy.  It is not intended to screen for any other eye condition.

For further information on our Mobile Retinal Screening Programme, contact Robyn Gibbens at the PHO on 03 768 6182 or robyn.gibbens@westcoastpho.org.nz