The KeepSight eye check reminder program has registered its 400,000th participant, marking a major milestone in the prevention of diabetes-related eye complications.
The program, delivered by Diabetes Australia in partnership with the eye sector, makes it easier for people with diabetes to remember when they are due to get their eyes checked and help detect eye problems that can lead to vision loss.
Diabetes Australia Group CEO Ms Justine Cain said the milestone was significant in the fight to maintain the sight of people living with diabetes.
“KeepSight is committed to preventing diabetes-related blindness,” Cain said. “Having over 400,000 people now registered with the program is a very significant milestone.”
“This program is changing lives by supporting people with diabetes to proactively look after their eye health and prevent complications.”
She added: “You don’t have to look far to see that this program is changing the lives of people with diabetes.”
Mr Idwer Jajju, who lives with type 2 diabetes, used his personal experience to urge people not to take their eyesight for granted.
“I have had bleeding and other symptoms in my eyes since 2010,” Jajju said.
“Since then, I have undergone various treatments including lasers, injections, and surgery, but I still have symptoms and bleeding.”
Jajju said that KeepSight is a valuable tool that advances preventative eyecare as it reminds people with diabetes when they’re due for a diabetes eye check.
According to Specsavers’ optometry director Dr Ben Ashby, KeepSight registering 400,000 people is evidence of a successful strategic partnership with Diabetes Australia that delivers better outcomes for program participants.
“People registered with KeepSight are accessing eyecare in a timely and regular manner, which is great to see,” Ashby said.
“To provide that opportunity to 400,000 patients is an important milestone in the prevention of avoidable vision loss.”
There are more than 1.5 million Australians living with all types of diabetes with research suggesting 800,000 don’t access routine eyecare services. Diabetes Australia is encouraging them to make an appointment with an eyecare professional for a Medicare-funded diabetes eye test.
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