Diabetic eye screening is provided for people who have diabetes as they are at risk of an eye condition called diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy is one of the most common causes of blindness in the Western world and as there may not be any symptoms, it is very important that screening takes place.
Anyone who has diabetes and is aged 12 or over should be screened. People with diabetes could be at risk of retinopathy (damage to the small blood vessels in the eyes causing them to bleed and leak fluid). Unless they are screened, they may not know this is happening until it is too late and have some sight loss.
If you are a diabetic and are already under the Eye Department and regularly having your retina checked, then please let us know. We will of course see you once discharged from the hospital.
You do not have to do anything. Your GP or Practice Nurse will give us your details and we will invite you for your screening appointment. Screening clinics are run every Wednesday at Rye Hospital.
We will simply take some photographs of the back of your eyes. We will use eye drops to make your pupils larger, so that we get the best possible photographs.
You are advised not to drive for four hours following the eye drops, it is therefore essential that you make alternative arrangements for your journey home.
You will receive a leaflet – Your guide to diabetic eye screening – giving you more information about screening with your appointment letter. You can also visit https://www.esht.nhs.uk/service/diabetic-eye-screening/ ahead of your appointment.
The administration office for the programme is based at Bexhill Hospital and can be contacted on
0300 131 4399 or at esh-tr.eyescreening@nhs.net.