This is a screening service only. Your test results will be sent to your GP. If you need further treatment, you’ll be referred to a specialist to discuss your options.

Before your appointment

Do not drive to or from your appointment. Your eye sight will be blurry for a few hours afterwards. We recommend that you arrange for someone to come with you or that you are collected from your appointment.

What to bring:

  • all the glasses and contact lenses you wear
  • your contact lens solution
  • sunglasses to wear after the test

Your appointment will last about 30 minutes. It will begin with a sight test, during which you’ll be asked to read some letters from a chart while sitting down. We’ll then put some drops in your eyes to dilate your pupils. These might sting for a few seconds.

When the drops start working, you’ll be asked to look into a camera. Pictures will be taken of the back of your eyes. You’ll see a bright flash when the picture is taken.

Your results will be sent to you and your doctor within 6 weeks. If you do not receive your results letter within 6 weeks, contact your GP.

Go back to where you had the test or go to A&E if:

  • your eyes become very painful
  • your eyes turn red
  • your sight is still blurry after 6 hours

These side effects are rare but need to be checked quickly.

Cumbria Diabetic Eye Screening Programme
102 Dalton Lane
Furness General Hospital
Barrow in Furness
Cumbria
LA14 4LF

0345 0500 109

retinalscreeningbooking@nhs.net