What routine examination should diabetic patients undergo annually?

For diabetic patients, an annual eye exam is essential due to the increased risk of diabetic retinopathy, a condition that can lead to vision loss. Diabetes can cause changes in the blood vessels of the retina, making regular screenings critical for early detection and management. Eye exams help to monitor any progress in eye health and ensure timely interventions if necessary, thereby preserving vision and preventing complications associated with diabetes.

Other examinations, while important, focus on different aspects of diabetes management. For instance, EKGs are generally used to assess heart health, which can be a concern for diabetics but are not required annually for all patients. Neuropathy screening is vital as well, but it is often recommended based on the patient's symptoms and history rather than as a routine annual exam for every diabetic patient. A foot biopsy is quite invasive and not a standard part of routine care for diabetes management. Thus, the eye exam stands out as a crucial yearly assessment specifically tailored to the unique complications associated with diabetes.