Asda is set to become the first supermarket in the UK to offer NHS diabetic eye screening in its stores.
Launching in partnership with specialist provider of diagnostic and healthcare solutions, InHealth, the service is available in 16 stores and is open Monday to Friday with some also offering Saturday clinics.
The locations include Barnes Hill, Barnstaple, Cape Hill, Chelmsley Wood, Darlaston, Halesowen, Oldbury, Peterborough, Shirley, Small Heath, South Ruislip, South Woodham Ferrers, St Matthews, Tilehurst, Weston Super Mare and Wolverhampton.
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The Big 4 grocer also looks to offer this service in a further 14 stores in coming months.
This comes as people diagnosed with diabetes have an increased risk of sight loss.
During the appointment at one of Asda’s stores, digital images are taken of the retina, which are assessed for certain sight-threatening conditions.
For patients that require hospital examination or treatment, InHealth works closely with the NHS and local hospitals to ensure the referral process is fast and effective.
“We understand how important a service such as this is to those in our community, so to bring in such a well-respected company such as InHealth was an easy decision and one we hope will make a real difference,” Asda healthcare partnerships manager, Maq Din said.
InHealth managing director, Phil Kirby added: “We’re delighted to partner with Asda stores to deliver greater accessibility for patients driving up attendance rates and protecting patients’ sight.”
