Warning notification:Warning

Unfortunately, you are using an outdated browser. Please, upgrade your browser to improve your experience with HSE. The list of supported browsers:

  1. Chrome
  2. Edge
  3. FireFox
  4. Opera
  5. Safari

Your appointment

Diabetic retina screening involves having specialised images taken at your local screening centre. The images are reviewed by an expert to check your eye for retinopathy.

If you want to join the programme, register your details with us.

If you are already registered with the programme and have a query about your appointment please contact your local screening centre.

Before your screening appointment

We'll send you an invitation to attend a free diabetic retinopathy screening appointment at your local screening clinic. The invitation will say where you need to go.

If you’re under 16, you’ll need to bring a parent or guardian with you.

You do not need to fast before or after your appointment.

Locations of diabetic retina screening clinics

Things to prepare in advance of your appointment

You will not be able to drive home from your appointment, so you may want to arrange for someone to collect you.

Eye drops are used to get a better picture of your eyes. The drops may make your eyes sensitive to light. You may want to bring sunglasses.

If you have a disability

If you have a disability and need support during your appointment, you can contact our access officer on:

Freephone: 1800 45 45 55

access@diabeticretinascreen.ie

During your screening appointment

You will be asked to give consent to us to use eye drops.

Your screening appointment should last about 30 minutes.

There will be a flash of light each time a photograph is taken, but the camera will not touch your eye.

The eye drops may cause your eyes to sting slightly, and after about 15 minutes your vision will be blurred. You may find it difficult to focus on objects that are close to you.

After your screening appointment

You may have blurred vision for 4 to 6 hours after your appointment. This is why you should not drive or operate machinery during this time.

After the screening procedure, everything might look bright. You might want to wear sunglasses.

Important

Do not wear contact lenses for at least 2 hours after the eye drops are used.

Page last reviewed: 18 November 2020
Next review due: 18 November 2023