For patients referred by their physician, Aspen PCN offers annual diabetic exams which include diabetic retinopathy exams as well as diabetic foot assessments. These are done by specifically trained PCN nurses.

Diabetic Retinopthy is a disease of the retina (part of the eye that enables sight) due to Diabetes.  Within 10 years of a diabetic diagnosis, 80% of patients will develop the condition. Without proper screening and prevention, Diabetic Retinopathy can lead to blindness.

The PCN tele-ophthalmology program allows a trained PCN nurse to take the photographs and conduct tests including a visual acuity check and an eye pressure test for glaucoma. The photographs and test results are then transmitted securely to a team of Ophthalmologist at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Edmonton, who in turn review them, make a diagnosis, and return their results to the Aspen PCN nurse and the patients physician within 24 hours. If any issues are detected, the Royal Alexandra Ophthalmologist will contact the patient for follow-up.

In the first 6 months of the tele-ophthalmology Healthy Eye Clinic program in Westlock, out of 39 patients screened, 8 were referred to a retinal specialist for further investigation (20% of the people screened).

The foot care program is for those diabetics that are unable to reach or take care of their feet appropriately?

Services includes basic nail care, callus and corn removal on a regular basis to help prevent possible development of sores and open wounds that could lead to serious complications. A patient with nerve damage may not feel the pain associated with developing foot sores.

Peripheral neuropathy is nerve damage that occurs over time in the hands and feet as a result of uncontrolled blood glucose levels. An important element of Diabetes care is the yearly foot exam. Our clinicians will examine our diabetic patients feet to look for signs or progression of nerve damage. The exam itself is quick and painless.