General
Domains: Clinical Practice, Communication
No CPD Points
Welcome to Sound Optometry, a podcast from Docet hosted by Michelle Hanratty, an IP optometrist with over 20 years’ experience in both high street and hospital settings. Each month, through case studies and in-depth conversations, we explore the topics that matter most to you as an optometrist and are relevant to everyday practice.
Episode 50 – Diabetic retinopathy: Dots and blots of significance
Diabetic eye disease is one of the leading causes of sight loss among working-age adults. However, its impact can often be reduced—or even prevented—through early detection of retinal changes. Optometrists play a crucial role in ensuring diabetic patients receive appropriate monitoring and management.
This episode builds on the Docet webinar Joining the dots (and blots) of diabetic retinopathy by Dr Rosalind Creer and addresses many of the questions raised by attendees. Whilst the features of diabetic retinopathy are generally well known, Michelle Hanratty takes the opportunity to explore some of the more subtle characteristics that can sometimes cause management dilemmas.
Dr Creer also outlines recent updates to the Diabetic Eye Screening Programme, which has significantly reduced the impact of diabetic eye disease in recent decades. The discussion includes the shift toward more community-based monitoring, new referral criteria for the Hospital Eye Service and the range of treatment options now available to patients.
An additional reading element consolidates the learning on this topic.
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First published: June 2025
Last published: April 2026