- Sudden vision loss, flashes of light, a curtain over your vision, a chemical splash or an eye injury needs care now. Call our office right away or go to an emergency room. If you can't reach us, call 911.
Diabetes and your eyes
A look at the back of the eye
Diabetes can change the small blood vessels at the back of the eye, often without changing how you see at first. An exam lets the doctor look and tell you what is there.
What to bring
Your list of medicines
The name of your primary care doctor
Your medical insurance card
Sunglasses, in case your eyes are dilated
The visit
What the exam covers
Results vary from person to person. The doctor tells you what the findings mean for you.
- 01
Dilated look
Drops widen the pupil so the doctor can see the back of the eye.
- 02
Photos of the eye
Pictures of the inside of the eye give you and the doctor something to compare next time.
- 03
A report for your doctor
With your permission, we send the findings to your primary care doctor.
- 04
A date for the next exam
The doctor tells you how often you should come back.
Questions about the diabetes exam
How often do I need it?
Many adults with diabetes have an eye exam every year. The doctor tells you how often is right for you.
Who pays for this exam?
It is usually a medical visit, billed to your medical insurance. The front desk checks your plan, including Medicaid, before you come.
Do I need a referral?
Some plans ask for one. Call us and the front desk tells you.
Ready to book a visit?
Send us your name and number, or call. We will find a time that fits your week.