R Retinal Screening for Diabetics Key purpose/benefit Screening for Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) is important because the majority of patients who develop DR have no symptoms until Macular Edema (ME) and/or Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR) are already present. In addition, the efficacy of laser photocoagulation in preventing visual loss from PDR and ME is well established. Early detection through screening programs and appropriate referral for therapy is important to preserve vision in individuals with diabetes.
Eligibility criteria Retinal screening services for eligible persons with a known diagnosis of Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes. (Gestational diabetes and pre-diabetes excluded)
Referral process Referral to this service is a Midland eReferral accessed through Best Practice to the WBOPPHO – Public organisation for the Diabetes “Diabetes Retinal Screening” specialty.
Payment Patient appointment is funded by the retinal screening service provider No charges or payments are associated with utilising or referring patients to this service
Service provider Tauranga Eye Specialists 25 Park Street Tauranga 3110 Phone: 07 578 7508
Fax: 07 578 4598
Contact details: Phil Back Manager General Practice Services Phone: 07 577 3194 Fax: 07 577 3191 Email: philb@wboppho.org.nz