Medicaid members in Beckley now have access to free diabetic eye exams and A1C blood tests thanks to a new partnership between Retina Labs and Wellpoint West Virginia. The initiative brings preventive screenings directly to residents through in-home appointments and community health events, helping remove transportation, scheduling, and mobility barriers that often prevent people from getting needed care.
This expansion is part of a broader statewide effort to help West Virginians catch early signs of diabetes-related complications before they become serious.
“For many Medicaid members, it’s the first time they’ve had easy access to a diabetic eye exam or A1C test without the barriers of travel or cost,” said Richard Pridham, president and CEO of Retina Labs. “Bringing screenings directly into communities like Beckley helps us catch problems early and support healthier lives.”
Mobile Health Services Close to Home
Retina Labs, a national leader in preventive screening services, uses mobile diagnostic technology and trained technicians to provide screenings outside traditional clinical settings. These tests can detect early signs of eye disease and other diabetes-related conditions that may lead to vision loss or more serious health issues if left untreated.
“Working with Wellpoint West Virginia has allowed us to make a real difference for people who might otherwise go without these vital screenings,” Pridham added. “By combining in-home visits with local community events, we’re helping more people take control of their health.”
Improving Access Across Beckley
In areas like Beckley, where reaching a doctor’s office can be difficult, the program is helping residents stay on top of essential diabetes care.
“Access to preventive care shouldn’t depend on where you live,” said Tadd Haynes, president of Wellpoint West Virginia. “By offering these screenings directly in communities like Beckley, we’re making health care more accessible and giving people tools to manage their health before small issues become serious problems.”
Members who have already used the service say they appreciate the convenience of receiving care at home or at nearby community locations without the stress of long travel or limited appointment availability.
“By helping members overcome common access barriers, including transportation and appointment availability, this partnership supports early detection and prevention to drive improved health outcomes across Beckley and the rest of West Virginia,” Haynes said.