Tony didn’t see it coming.* The 46-year-old has type 2 diabetes and struggles with high blood pressure. But his vision was fine. At least he thought so until a special eye exam, called RetinaVue, revealed it wasn’t.
During a visit to the MNPS Health Care Centers, Tony’s provider suggested a RetinaVue screening. Even though he hadn’t noticed any vision changes, he agreed. Tony was shocked to learn he had mild diabetic retinopathy, a serious eye condition that can gradually cause vision loss. Tony was referred to an eye specialist where he received treatment, potentially saving his sight.
Schedule a RetinaVue exam at the MNPS Health Care Centers.
What is retinopathy?
Retinopathy is a complication of diabetes. It can occur when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina — the part of the eye that detects light and sends signals to the brain. Retinopathy develops gradually and can usually be managed if caught early. Untreated, it can lead to vision problems and even blindness.
What is RetinaVue?
RetinaVue is a convenient way to get an annual retinopathy exam — it doesn’t require your eyes to be dilated. Instead, you simply look into a special camera that takes a picture of the inside of each eye. Those pictures are then sent to an ophthalmologist for review. If your results show signs of retinopathy, the MNPS Health Care Centers will contact you to discuss next steps.
In 2025, the RetinaVue cameras in the MNPS clinics detected eye disease in six patients; three of them were severe, vision-threatening cases.
How often do I need this screening?
The American Diabetes Association recommends everyone with diabetes have a yearly:
Retinopathy screening like RetinaVue AND
A regular, comprehensive eye exam (see below)
Is RetinaVue the only eye exam I need?
No. The RetinaVue exam is specifically looking for damage to the retina, which is more common in people with diabetes and can cause vision loss. This screening does not replace a comprehensive eye exam.
A comprehensive eye exam will assess your vision, check for glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye) and look at structures within the eye, including the retina. It can also provide a prescription for glasses and/or contacts.
All five MNPS Health Care Centers can perform the RetinaVue exam, but you will need to see an ophthalmologist for a comprehensive annual eye exam.
How do I schedule a RetinaVue screening?
If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes and haven’t had a diabetic retinopathy exam in the last year, you’re eligible for screening. All five MNPS Health Care Centers offer the RetinaVue exam. Call 615-259-8755 or visit MNPSHealth.org/schedule to schedule an appointment.
* Patient’s name changed for privacy