It is estimated that more than 40% of diabetics 40 years or older have diabetic retinopathy.  Many of these patients will progress to an advanced, vision threatening form of the disease.  However, with appropriate screening, early detection, and treatment of diabetic retinopathy, the vision loss can be reduced by 90-95%. 

The grant will enable Helen Newberry Joy Hospital to purchase digital retinal imaging hardware to conduct Diabetic Retinopathy screenings locally in the Gibson Family Health Clinic. These images will then be reviewed by a qualified eye care specialist. This will save patients travel, time, and money previously spent to get to these appointments making it more likely they will obtain a screening and less likely to suffer vision impairment.

“It is of the utmost importance for anyone with diabetes to get an annual eye exam,” says Joe Johnson, Chief Nursing Officer at Helen Newberry Joy Hospital. “While there is no cure for diabetic retinopathy today, vision loss can be lessened with early diagnosis and proper treatment from an eye care professional. This generous grant will enable us to implement the Helen Newberry Joy Hospital Diabetic Retinopathy Telehealth Project.”