Diabetes can be detected through comprehensive eye exam

A partnership in Utah between the state's department of health and eight major health care plans has made it one of the the leaders of diabetes control and prevention in the United States, the Standard Examiner reports.

According to the news source, nine groups jointed together to form the Utah Health Plan Partnership, and have been able to improve measures that affect quality of life for those with diabetes. Steps have been taken to ensure patients maintain blood glucose and lipid control, rates of eye exams and kidney function screening.

"When the health plans combine efforts, innovation, and resources, we are all much more successful in addressing the health needs of our community," industry insider Lynette Hansen, told the news provider. "Not only are we more effective in reaching individuals, but we also receive greater cooperation from physicians and the medical community."

Complications of the condition include heart disease and blindness. The American Optometric Association reports that although many adults know that diabetes is detectable through a comprehensive eye exam, only 38 percent of adults who do not wear glasses visited an eye doctor over the last two years.