Make sure you register with KeepSight

Optometrists are expected to deliver thousands of extra comprehensive eye examinations as a result of the new national KeepSight program, said CEO of Optometry Australia Lyn Brodie said today.

Through KeepSight, 1.27 million people with diabetes registered on the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) will be encouraged to have regular eye examinations with an eye health care provider.

“We believe this program will help to dramatically increase rates of eye examinations and reduce diabetes-related vision loss and blindness in Australia.

“It is an extremely valuable community initiative that confirms optometrists’ role in the management of eye health issues associated with diabetes,” Lyn said.

KeepSight will utilise a systematic, wide-scale recall and reminder system to notify those registered on the NDSS that they are due for a comprehensive eye health examination. A consumer awareness campaign delivered by Diabetes Australia will also encourage those with diabetes who are, or who may not be registered on the NDSS, to see their eye health professional.

“You can be involved in this unprecedented opportunity but you will need to register.

“We encourage you to do this now – before the consumer awareness campaign commences – via the secure KeepSight webportal.”

Registration should take less than 60 seconds and you will need your AHPRA number handy which will be used to authenticate your OBA registration.

Once you are registered and a new or existing patient with diabetes visits your practice it is easy to log in to the KeepSight portal and, with their consent, ensure their examination is recorded so they can receive recalls from KeepSight as required. Your practice can also reinforce recalls and reminders with your patients through your normal channels over and above what they will receive from KeepSight.

“We are delighted that the KeepSight portal will in the future link to the Good vision for life ‘Find an optometrist search tool’.”

To ensure that you take full advantage of this, please review your membership details to ensure that they are up to date – and don’t forget to tick the “Diabetes Eye Care” box under Services Provided if you have real interest and experience in this condition.

“If you haven’t done so already, upload your profile so that prospective patients know a little more about you and your skills,” said Lyn.

KeepSight provides the opportunity for you to grow your patient list and once they are registered on the program’s database, they will be automatically reminded when they are due for their next comprehensive eye examination.

You can find more information on KeepSight here; read our comprehensive FAQs here; or email us at policy@optometry.org.au.

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