New technology to help diabetes patients combat the risk of blindness is being introduced in mid Essex.

People with the condition have been invited to attend a presentation on the new digital retinal screening service by staff at Chelmsford's Broomfield Hospital.

Two digital camera teams will visit patients at GP surgeries and take images of patients' eyes, when the technology is rolled out in April.

The records will then be sent on for a second opinion by diabetes specialist Richard Dewhirst, at the West Suffolk NHS Trust, before being returned within 48 hours.

Patients can learn about the screening programme at the presentation which will be held in Broomfield Hospital's medical academic unit, at 1pm on January 29. Space is limited and to reserve a place contact 01245 398721.

Published Thursday, January 20, 2005

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