Sample Introductory Letter for Primary Care Physicians
Your Name and/or Logo
Date
Jennifer A. Smith, M.D.
1492 Mockingbird Lane
Peoria, Illinois 52947
re: Eye Care for Diabetes Patients
Dear Dr. Smith,
As you know, diabetes is the leading cause of visual impairment and blindness in working
age Americans. Epidemiologists suggest that more than 90% of cases of significant visual
impairment can be prevented with good metabolic control, early detection of eye disease and
appropriate treatment. Moreover, diabetic retinopathy is associated with elevated
cardiovascular risk. To this end, I’d like to familiarize you with the eye care services our
office can provide you and your patients with diabetes:
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Comprehensive dilated eye examination to detect and appropriately stage diabetic
retinopathy, including timely referral for treatment by a retinal specialist, if indicated
Retinal imaging (fundus photography/optical coherence tomography) to enhance
diagnostic accuracy and enhance patient education
Thorough anterior and posterior segment examination of the eyes to detect the myriad
ophthalmic complications of diabetes, including cataract, glaucoma, corneal disease
and extraocular muscle paresis
Evidence-based diabetes education, including lifestyle counseling that complements
and reinforces your recommendations
Timely communication to you about our mutual patients
I am passionate about providing great diabetes eye care that enhances patient outcomes, and
would be delighted to assist you in any way possible, including conducting patient seminars
about diabetes and the eyes, providing written materials for your patients, or collaborating in
any way that would be useful to you and your patients. I have enclosed a copy of our office’s
“Diabetes Eye Examination Report,” as well as (patient handouts, fundus/OCT images
depicting diabetic retinopathy and macular edema) for your review. If you have any
questions whatsoever, I am most happy to talk with you at any time.
Sincerely,
John A. Jones, O.D.
enclosures: