Practices could offer blood glucose tests

Calls for optical practices to conduct blood glucose tests on potentially diabetic eye patients have been backed by the Local Optical Committee Support Unit (LOCSU).

Researchers at Durham University last week claimed a simple finger prick test could be an extension to optometrists' current screening of people with known diabetes for eye disease.

LOCSU adviser Trevor Warburton said: 'A diabetes check which could be delivered in optical practices may be worth investigation as this study suggests, in the same way other services such as smoking cessation and blood pressure measurement.'

It followed a study by Durham University and The James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough, involving five high street practices.