With the focus on PCTs to meet Government targets and the release of the National Diabetes Audit (NDA) for 2008/2009 expected soon, 1st Retinal Screen gives a snap shot point of view on the key issues PCTs need to consider when delivering a quality Diabetic Retinopathy Screening Programme to its population.

For many PCTs, establishing and managing a DRS programme has proven to be a complex and difficult process. Whilst the actual screening of patients is important, it is just one part of a DRS service, and it is vital that each part of the service is both efficient and cost effective.

In May 2009, the Department of Health released its latest figures on retinal screening which showed that around 26% of people with diabetes aged 12 and over were not screened for diabetic retinopathy in 2008.

The 2009 NDA report is due out within the next few months and some PCTs will be concerned as several DRS programmes during 2009 were suspended due to the inadequate quality of its DRS screening services.

Established in 2004, 1st Retinal Screen is one of the leading providers of DRS services and has a proven track record on establishing and managing DRS programmes for PCTs in England. Its clients include Swindon PCT, and it was the first non-NHS organisation commissioned by the PCT to deliver clinical services to Swindon patients.

Phil Kirby, director of 1st Retinal Screen, stated “before implementing a DRS service, PCTs must ensure the following are included as part of its DRS programme:

• Construct a diabetes register from client defined sources with ongoing management of the register.

• Training in patient listing management to ensure optimum use of the service.

• Booking, call and recall service for managing the patient pathway.

• Retinal screening by highly trained professional staff.

• Image grading and reporting by nationally accredited professionals.

• Controlled access to centrally stored screening reports and images.

• Automated patient referral service.

By addressing each and all of these areas before putting a DRS programme in place, a PCT is giving itself and its diabetic patients the ability to not only meet its targets but also offer high quality care for patients with diabetes.”

Today, 1st Retinal Screen works with PCTs offering either a fully managed DRS service or modular approach to assist them in meeting its targets. 1st Retinal Screen has served over 12 DRS programmes in England and screened over 60,000 patients with diabetes in England during 2009.

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