Diabetic Eye Screening Programme

Diabetic eye checks will usually be done separately to your diabetes check-up.

Diabetic eye checks are managed by the diabetic eye screening programme team (DESP) and are not usually done at your GP surgery or at hospital. 

To ensure our service is accessible as possible, we screen at 10 locations across Northamptonshire.

We advise that you DO NOT drive after your appointment. The eye drops we administer can cause your eyesight to go blurry for up to 6 hours and limit your vision. 

What happens?

• When you arrive, you will be greeted by the friendly screening staff. After confirming your details you will be taken through for your eye screening. Please note - this screening is NOT the same as an optician's eye check. The screening is vital for diabetes patients so please do keep your appointments with us.   
• Our team will put eye drops into both eyes; this may sting for a few seconds but passes quickly. The drops are vital so that we can get a clear picture of the back of your eyes.  Please, don't see drops as a barrier to coming to regular screening, we will do what we can to help you.
• We will then ask you to wait in the waiting area while the eye drops take effect, this usually takes 15 to 20 minutes.
• After this time you will be shown into another room for the screening where we will ask you to place your chin on the rest and look into the camera. Your images will be taken, and then you are free to go home.
  Your images will be processed and assessed by the grading team. You and your GP will usually receive the results in three weeks.
• If there is any need for more images to be taken, or a referral to be made for further treatment, we will let you know and explain the process to you.

Do I need to bring anything to my appointment?

• Any glasses that you use. 
• Sunglasses - as your eyes may be light sensitive after the drops.
• Information regarding your eyes, or information you want us to know.
• If you are attending by pre-booked transport, you may want to bring something to eat or drink as you may need to wait.
• If needed, someone to help you with personal needs.