HC Deb 06 March 2003 vol 400 c1196W
Mr. Gibb

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps are being taken to ensure diabetic patients receive retinopathy screening through the national health service. [99628]

Mr. Lammy

A systematic retinopathy screening programme was one of two specific national targets published as part of the diabetes national service framework delivery strategy on 9 January 2003. It states that, by 2006, a minimum of 80 per cent. of people with diabetes are to be offered screening for the early detection and treatment, if needed, of diabetic retinopathy as part of a systematic programme that meets national standards, rising to 100 per cent. coverage of those at risk of retinopathy by the end of 2007.

A copy of the diabetes national service framework delivery strategy has been placed in the Library.