Affecting blood vessels in the retina (the light- sensitive layer of tissue in the back of your eye), diabetic retinopathy is an eye condition that can cause vision loss and even blindness in people with diabetes.
Annual comprehensive dilated eye exams are key to early discovery of this condition, which may not have any symptoms. Early stages of diabetic retinopathy may only result in subtle changes in vision, like trouble reading or seeing faraway objects. These changes may come and go. Early discovery can help diabetics take steps to protect vision.
Sponsored by the RRDOHT, the Gizhewaadiziwin Health Access Centre (GHAC) has commenced a Diabetic Retinopathy Screening Program in our First Nation communities, bringing screening to people who may not typically have access to the services.
"So far the program is going well, but we have reached only a small number of people living with diabetes. In the fall we hope
to hold retinopathy screening clinics in each community."
Program Lead Elin Czayka
With a larger rollout being planned for the fall, the pilot program has already made an impact with an initial retinopathy screening event.
One member of the community tested positive and was referred to opthamology to develop an action plan to avoid serious damage.
Although the program has reached only a small number of people living with diabetes so far, the fall holds promise for a broader reach.
The plan is to hold retinopathy screening clinics in each community in the district, and to begin screening those who go in for office appointments at the Gizhewaadisiwin Health Access Centre.
For more information on the program and its plans for a larger fall rollout, reach out to Program Lead Elin Czayka at eczayka@gizhac.com.
Rainy River District Ontario Health Team