According to the American Diabetes Association, adults with Type 2 Diabetes should have a dilated eye exam soon after being diagnosed. Around 1 in 5 individuals with Type 2 Diabetes have some form of eye problem at the time of diagnosis.

To improve diabetic eye health outcomes, primary care providers play a crucial role. It is essential for PCPs to ensure their diabetic patients receive regular eye exams, participate in outreach initiatives, and promote early detection and intervention to prevent complications such as diabetic retinopathy and macular edema. LHP's outreach program can support this effort by ensuring timely eye care for patients.

The two most common eye conditions associated with diabetes are:

1. Diabetic Retinopathy: This condition, particularly common in long-term diabetics, affects over 90% of Type 1 and 60% of Type 2 diabetes patients within 20 years of diagnosis. Providers should monitor closely for this condition, as it can lead to significant vision impairment if not managed properly.


2. Diabetic Macular Edema (DME): DME is a swelling of the macula caused by diabetic retinopathy. It can result in severe vision loss if left untreated, making immediate medical attention critical.

LHP tracks the completion rates of diabetic eye exams, which in 2024 are currently below the target of 60%. The current rate is 48.5%, slightly ahead of last year. This represents an opportunity for performance improvement. We have a robust outreach program. Consult with your outreach advisor to learn more and participate later this year.

• The eye exam outreach initiative, launched in 2019, aims to increase the number of diabetic patients receiving eye exams. Primary care practices can choose to participate and identify patients who should or should not be contacted.


• PCPs are encouraged to discuss the importance of eye exams during patient visits and provide educational brochures. Ophthalmology practices handle scheduling and communication of results, reducing the burden on PCPs.


• The initiative uses patient data to match individuals with appropriate ophthalmology practices based on factors such as previous visits or geographic proximity.

By prioritizing diabetic eye health, primary care providers can make a significant difference in the prevention of blindness and other complications associated with diabetes.