Clinical and legal issues in the management of patients with diabetes.

Retinopathy is a likely complication of diabetes mellitus, and optometrists who manage patients with diabetes must be prepared to recognize the disease, educate the patient, communicate with the physician treating the disease, and follow up as appropriate to minimize the opportunity for undiagnosed complications. Liability most often results from failure to diagnose diabetic retinopathy, failure to monitor retinopathy adequately, and failure to refer or obtain consultation in a timely manner. Care for patients with diabetes should include appropriate record-keeping and documentation.