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Diagnosis Gaps Mark Retinopathy Care

A US systematic review found substantial losses across diabetic retinopathy screening, diagnosis awareness, referral, and follow-up.

  • By

  • Andrea Surnit

  • June 25, 2026

  • 6 min

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Clinical Scorecard: Diagnosis Gaps Mark Retinopathy Care

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionDiabetic Retinopathy
Key MechanismsCascade-of-care framework from diabetes diagnosis to diabetic retinopathy-related visual impairment and blindness.
Target PopulationUS adults with diabetes
Care SettingPrimary care and emergency department settings

Key Highlights

  • 70% of patients with photographic evidence of diabetic retinopathy were unaware of their diagnosis.
  • Annual screening adherence ranged from 3% to 69%, with a median of about 47%.
  • Only 52% of patients diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy were linked to ophthalmic care.
  • Approximately 0.4% of patients with diabetic retinopathy had diabetic retinopathy-related blindness.
  • Barriers to follow-up included younger age, systemic racism, and lack of insurance.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • At least annual diabetic retinopathy screening beginning at diagnosis for patients with type 2 diabetes.
  • Screening should begin 5 years after diagnosis for patients with type 1 diabetes.

Management

  • Patient navigation and teleophthalmology-based services may improve care.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Regular follow-up is essential due to the need for more frequent visits than screening.

Risks

  • Lack of awareness of diabetic retinopathy diagnosis is associated with longer diabetes duration and elevated A1C.

Patient & Prescribing Data

US adults with diabetes

Follow-up adherence is challenging due to competing health issues and the need for ongoing retinal care.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Implement community-designed digital health tools to enhance awareness and follow-up.
  • Utilize artificial intelligence-assisted diagnosis tools to improve screening accuracy.

Related Resources & Content

Original Source(s)

Diagnosis Gaps Mark Retinopathy Care

  • by Andrea Surnit

  • June 25, 2026

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