When to schedule an eye examination Diabetic retinopathy usually takes years to develop, which is why it is important to have regular eye exams. Because people with Type 2 diabetes may have been living with the disease for some time before they are diagnosed, it is important that they see an ophthalmologist (Eye M.D.) without delay. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends the following schedule for people with diabetes:
Type 1: Within five years of being diagnosed and then yearly.
Type 2: At the time of diabetes diagnosis and then yearly.
During pregnancy: Pregnant women with diabetes should schedule an appointment with their ophthalmologist in the first trimester because retinopathy can progress quickly during pregnancy.
