Diabetic retinopathy affects over one-third of people with diabetes and is the leading cause of vision loss in working-age adults. Without effective intervention, the number of people with diabetic retinopathy will increase as global diabetes prevalence rises. Management and screening for diabetic retinopathy should begin in primary healthcare, where providers play a key role in educating patients, arranging eye examinations and referring patients for treatment if necessary. The International Diabetes Federation and The Fred Hollows Foundation have partnered to raise awareness and develop a guide for health professionals, with the aim of improving access to eye health services for people with diabetes.