The KeepSight eye check reminder program has registered its 400,000th participant – 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 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," Ms 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.
"You don't have to look far to see that this program is changing the lives of people with diabetes," she said.
Idwer Jajju, who lives with type 2 diabetes, urged people to never take their eyesight for granted.
"I have had bleeding and other symptoms in my eyes since 2010," Mr Jajju said.
"Since then, I have undergone various treatments including lasers, injections, and surgery, but I still have symptoms and bleeding.
"KeepSight is a valuable program because it reminds you when you're due for a diabetes eye check. Preventive eye care is very important."
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 eye care in a timely and regular manner, which is great to see," Dr 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. They are encouraged to make an appointment with an eye care professional of their choice for a Medicare-funded diabetes eye test.
About KeepSight program
The KeepSight program, which is run by Diabetes Australia, has been co-funded by the Australian Government and Specsavers, with additional funding from Bayer, Novartis and Mylan. The program is supported by leading diabetes and eye health groups including Oculo, Vision 2020 Australia, Centre for Eye Research Australia, the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists, Orthoptics Australia, Optometry Australia, the Australian Diabetes Society and the Australian Diabetes Educators Association.
