Cat Smith Working for Lancaster and Wyre

I’ve been aware of the challenges facing local people with diabetes in accessing Retinal Eye Screenings. This service is crucial for diabetic patients. Regular testing looks for an eye condition called diabetic retinopathy that can be caused by diabetes. The condition can often deteriorate without showing symptoms but can eventually cause sight-loss. Finding signs of the condition early can reduce eye damage and prevent loss of sight.
Sadly, local clinics were disrupted when the NHS removed their services from Ryelands House, due to the high cost of maintaining the building. Consequently, patients have been forced to travel as far as Carnforth for screenings – a minor inconvenience for some but for others without access to a car or with mobility issues, it became a barrier to receiving essential care.
For some time now I’ve been working with the Diabetic Eye Screening Service Lead for Lancashire to secure a suitable alternative venue. After contacting several local organisations, productive discussions have taken place between the service lead and Lancaster and Morecambe College.
Last week I was thrilled to receive news that a pilot clinic is scheduled for next month at the college and if successful, a full rollout of the service is planned from April, which will provide 6,660 screening appointments for diabetic patients across our area. I hope that that this comes as good news and I will of course keep you all updated once I hear feedback about the pilot clinic!