Brandvold Eye Care Call

Diabetic eye exams in DeLand

Diabetes can damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina. The early stages usually cause no symptoms, so a dilated exam at least once a year finds them.

A retinal camera on a small table in a dim exam room

What the exam includes

An older man smiles in the exam chair, wearing dark glasses after his drops

We dilate your pupils, look at the retina and optic nerve, and take retinal photos to compare from year to year. Your vision is blurry for several hours afterward, so please bring a driver.

Working with your doctor

A closed silver laptop, a cream envelope and a pair of eyeglasses sit on a light wooden desk by a window.

After the exam we send a report to your primary care doctor. If we see changes that need treatment, we refer you to a retina specialist and help set up the visit.

Questions about diabetic eye exams

My vision is fine. Do I still need the exam?

Yes. The early stages usually cause no symptoms, so the exam finds changes before you notice them.

Is a diabetic eye exam billed to vision or medical insurance?

It is a medical visit, so it is usually billed to your medical insurance. We check your coverage before you come in.

Reviewed by Dr. Nadia Brandvold, OD, October 7, 2026