The latest Department of health figures suggest that two thirds of PCTs in England are failing to meet a government target on retinal screening of diabetic patients.

In 2003 a target, to be met by PCTs by 2007, was set to test the eyes of 80% of patients with diabetes. But government figures for the period October to December 2008 showed that 100 out of 152 PCTs failed to meet the national standard.

North Yorkshire and York PCT turned out to be two of the worst cases where only 20% of the patients were screened. West Hertfordshire PCT too screened just 21%.

Retinal screening with a digital camera is used to spot signs of retinopathy, a complication of diabetes in which blood vessels in the retina of the eye become blocked.

Simon O’Neill, director of care, information and advocacy services at Diabetes UK, said, ‘If retinopathy is identified early enough, treated properly and people are supported to manage their diabetes well, blindness can be prevented in 90% of cases.

‘PCTs need to ensure they are promoting and inviting all eligible people with diabetes for retinopathy screening, and provide a service that meets national quality standards,’ he added.