FREE Sunglasses with Every Child Eye Test | Offer ends January 31st!
Diabetic Eye Examination
Bulk Billed Diabetic Eye Exams Available
If you have diabetes, regular eye examinations are important for monitoring the health of your eyes. Eligible patients with a valid Medicare card may access bulk billed diabetic eye exams at Northbridge Optical, with no out-of-pocket cost for the consultation.
These exams include assessments for signs of diabetic eye changes, and your optometrist will explain the results and next steps based on your individual needs.
Why Regular Diabetic Eye Exams Matter
For individuals living with diabetes, routine eye exams support ongoing monitoring of both vision and ocular health. Here’s how they help:
Ongoing Eye Health Assessment
Diabetes can affect different parts of the eye. Regular exams allow your optometrist to assess the condition of the retina, lens, and other structures, and identify any changes that may require follow-up.
Support Early Detection of Eye Changes
Routine checks may assist in identifying signs associated with diabetic eye disease, such as diabetic retinopathy, before symptoms become noticeable.
Inform Overall Diabetes Management
Changes observed in the eyes can provide additional information for your broader health team about how diabetes is affecting your body.
Guide Next Steps in Care
If signs of diabetic-related changes are found, your optometrist may provide recommendations or refer you for further medical or specialist care where appropriate.
Did you know?
Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of preventable blindness in working-age Australians!
Source: Diabetes Australia
Experience Northbridge
Supporting Diabetic Eye Health with Professional Assessments
Our optometrists provide diabetic eye examinations to assess for changes related to diabetes that may affect your vision. These assessments may include retinal imaging and other tests to help monitor the health of your eyes. If any concerns are found, we will discuss the next steps with you and may refer you to your GP or an eye specialist if required.
Think you might need glasses?
Eyewear Options to Suit Your Prescription and Style!
If you’ve noticed changes in your vision, your optometrist can assess whether a prescription update is needed. We offer a variety of optical frames and sunglasses, suited to different prescriptions, preferences, and face shapes. Our team can help you select eyewear that matches your needs and comfort.
Your Eye Health, Professionally Managed
Our optometrists are fully registered with AHPRA and provide comprehensive eye examinations using modern diagnostic equipment.
We assess vision, screen for eye disease, and provide personalised prescription solutions tailored to your needs.
- AHPRA-registered practitioners
- Digital retinal imaging
- Contact lens fittings
- Medicare-supported eye tests
For further information about our practice, you can visit our Google Business Profile
Frequently Asked Questions About Diabetic Eye Examinations
See below the most commonly asked questions we receive from our patients daily about diabetic eye examinations
If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes, your GP or specialist may recommend an eye examination to assess the health of your eyes. Diabetes can affect the blood vessels in the retina, and over time may contribute to changes in vision.
In some cases, diabetes may be associated with conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, where changes in the retinal blood vessels can be observed. These changes may not cause symptoms in the early stages, so routine eye checks can assist in identifying signs that may benefit from further monitoring or referral.
A diabetic eye exam includes a detailed assessment of the retina and blood vessels in the eye. To do this, your optometrist will usually use dilating eye drops to widen the pupils. These drops typically take 30–45 minutes to take effect.
Once the pupils are dilated, the optometrist can more easily examine the back of the eye using a microscope and imaging tools. This allows for a more comprehensive evaluation of any changes that may be associated with diabetes. If signs of diabetic retinopathy or other findings are observed, further testing or referral may be recommended.
After your exam, your vision may remain blurry and sensitive to light for a few hours. We suggest bringing sunglasses, and arranging alternative transport if you are unsure about driving afterward.
For people with diabetes, it’s generally recommended to have a dilated eye examination every 1 to 2 years. Your optometrist may recommend more frequent reviews depending on your clinical findings, blood sugar control, and other risk factors. These timeframes can be discussed during your visit.
Book an Appointment at Northbridge Optical Today
Take the first step in caring for your eye health. Schedule your comprehensive eye exam now.
Subscribe To Our Newsletter
Fill out your email below to never miss out on the latest news and optical insights at Northbridge!