Eye Care Built Around Diabetic Patients
Diabetes affects the eyes more than almost any other part of the body. Our entire practice is built around catching and managing diabetic eye disease early — before it threatens your sight.
Understanding Diabetic Eye Care
Diabetes can quietly damage the tiny blood vessels in the back of the eye long before you notice any change in your vision. Over time, this can lead to diabetic retinopathy, macular swelling, early cataracts, and a higher risk of glaucoma — all of which can cause permanent vision loss if they go unchecked.
At Healthy Vision Institute, diabetic eye care isn't a side service — it's what we do every day. We've focused our practice on diabetic and senior patients since 2003, using advanced imaging to find problems at the earliest, most treatable stage.
Why diabetics need yearly eye exams
- Diabetic eye disease often has no early symptoms — vision can seem fine while damage is happening
- Blurred or fluctuating vision
- Dark spots or 'floaters' in your field of view
- Difficulty seeing at night or with contrast
- Higher risk of cataracts and glaucoma at a younger age
How We Help
Every visit starts with a thorough dilated exam and advanced retinal imaging so we can see exactly what's happening inside your eye. If we find early disease, we build a personalized plan to manage it and protect your vision.
We accept Medicare and most major insurance plans, and our front desk will verify your coverage for you. We also offer our one-of-a-kind Healthy Diabetic Experience nutrition program to help you manage diabetes from the inside out.
Why Diabetic Eye Exams Matter
If you have diabetes, your eyes need a dilated exam every year — even if your vision seems fine. High blood sugar quietly damages the eye's blood vessels, and the most treatable stages of diabetic retinopathy usually have no symptoms at all.
Diabetes also raises your risk of cataracts and glaucoma, so a thorough diabetic exam checks for all three. For patients who want structured, ongoing support, we offer our Diabetic Wellness Program.
Does Medicare cover diabetic eye exams? Annual diabetic eye exams are typically a covered benefit — we'll confirm your plan; see accepted insurance.
Related: Diabetic retinopathy • Meet Dr. Powers • Insurance & Medicare
Patient Resources
Helpful guides from Dr. Powers for our diabetic and senior patients.
How often should a diabetic get an eye exam?
Early warning signs of diabetic retinopathy
What to expect at your first diabetic eye exam
Does Medicare cover diabetic eye exams?
Cataract surgery for seniors: what to know
How much does a diabetic eye exam cost?
Optometrist vs. ophthalmologist: who should a diabetic see?
If you live with diabetes, a yearly dilated eye exam is one of the most important things you can do to keep your sight. Most diabetic vision loss is preventable when caught early.
New patients are always welcome at all three locations. Fill out the form below — just choose your location — and our front desk will reach out to confirm, usually the same day. Prefer to talk to a person? Call (727) 738-5900.
Visit Us at a Location Near You
We offer this care at all three of our offices across Tampa Bay.