During an eye examination, Dr. Bender looks in the eyes for signs of systemic disease like diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), or high cholesterol. It is critical to have an annual eye examination to have the eyes monitored. For example, uncontrolled diabetes can lead to blindness. If caught early, however, it can also be treated in time to prevent loss of vision.

When Dr. Bender finds systemic health issues in the eyes, he sends a detailed report to your PCP (primary care provider). This informs your PCP that your overall treatment of the disease needs to be evaluated. Perhaps their medications need to be adjusted, or the problems could need the attention of a specialist in a particular area of the eye.

Patients with glaucoma that cannot be controlled with medications and requires surgery (as well as some other retinal problems) gets sent to a retinal specialist.