Northern Ireland Diabetic Eye Screening Programme

DESP Screener Grader Band 4/5

Diabetic eye screening is a test to check for eye problems caused by diabetes. Eye problems caused by diabetes are called diabetic retinopathy. This can lead to sight loss if it’s not found early. The eye screening test can find problems before they affect your sight. As a diabetic eye screener you will take pictures of the back of the eye to check for any changes and when trained grade the images as well.

The Northern Ireland Diabetic Eye Screening Programme (DESP) aims to reduce the risk of sight loss by the early detection and treatment of diabetic retinopathy. Research has shown that screening could prevent sight loss in more than 15 people with diabetes in Northern Ireland each year.

We are seeking to recruit permanent posts and applications are welcome from across Northern Ireland.

The post holders’ base will be at the DESP admin offices at Forster Green Hospital. However, he/ she must have access to a vehicle and be expected to travel across Northern Ireland on a daily basis. Screening is currently delivered in the following locations:

Belfast                  Coleraine                             Banbridge

Lisburn                 Limavady                            Antrim

Magherafelt           Armagh                               Clough

Strabane                Ballycastle                           Whiteabbey

Newry                   Bangor                                Enniskillen

Ballymena             Dungannon                          Portadown

Londonderry          Omagh

In some locations a mobile camera is used which is transported to and from the venue from base at Forster Green. You will be required to use a Trust vehicle to transport the camera.

There is a rota in place that includes weekend and evening working; currently in Belfast, Banbridge, Ballycastle, Bangor but this can change.

If appointed, you will be required to successfully complete the Health Screener Diploma within 2 years of appointment and then will move to Band 5 payscale.

Diabetic Eye Screening is a rewarding professional role that takes place in a health care facilities and more recently community venues. You will be part of a team that aspires to improve the patient’s quality of life through enthusiastic diabetic healthcare support.

For further information about this post and to apply online, please visit jobs.hscni.net.

The closing date for receipt of completed applications is Tuesday 23rd January 2024.

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