Watch Out: Patients with Diabetes at Risk for Eye Conditions
Course Overview
In recognition of National Diabetes Month, this course is 30% off for AAMA members throughout November.

Diabetes is the leading cause of new cases of blindness in adults aged 18 to 64 years, with diabetic retinopathy as the most common cause of vision loss in people with diabetes. Fortunately, finding and treating diabetic retinopathy early can reduce the risk of blindness by 95%. Review which eye conditions may be caused by diabetes as well as their symptoms and key risk factors. Learn how medical assistants can help patients with diabetes improve their eye health.
Course Information
Course Description
Diabetes can damage the eyes before a patient notices pain or changes in vision. Early detection, routine dilated eye examinations, diabetes management, and timely treatment can significantly reduce the risk of vision loss. This course reviews diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, cataracts, glaucoma, and other eye conditions associated with diabetes. Learners will examine warning signs, risk factors, screening recommendations, and available treatments.

The course also highlights how medical assistants can ask targeted questions, reinforce the importance of eye examinations, promote diabetes management, and connect patients with appropriate resources. These actions can help patients recognize concerning changes and receive needed eye care promptly.

Learning Objectives
As a result of completing this course, learners will be able to:
  • Describe common eye conditions associated with diabetes.
  • Identify symptoms and risk factors that may indicate diabetic eye disease.
  • Explain the importance and recommended timing of comprehensive dilated eye examinations.
  • Recognize treatments used to manage diabetes-related eye complications.
  • Apply patient education strategies that support healthy vision and timely follow-up.
Course Contributors
Pamela Schumacher, MS, CCMP
Author, "Watch Out: Patients with Diabetes at Risk for Eye Conditions"
Intended Audience
This course is intended for medical assistants, CMA (AAMA) professionals, allied health professionals, and ambulatory care staff who support patients with diabetes. It offers practical guidance for recognizing concerning symptoms, reinforcing preventive eye care, and helping patients connect with the appropriate members of their health care team.
Retake Information
Please note that retakes for this online course require repurchase.
Summary
Availability:
On-Demand
Access expires 14 days after start
Cost:
Member: $14.00
Nonmember: $30.00
CEU Offered:
1 Gen/Clin CEU
Recommended