Critical Kidney Health Tests

Many providers miss one of two key kidney health tests for their patients with diabetes. Join us in prioritizing patients with diabetes by completing all tests to monitor chronic kidney disease and diabetic retinopathy before the end of the year.

The following HEDIS/Stars measures provide a helpful framework.

1. Kidney Health Evaluation for Patients with Diabetes, or KED

Order both tests before 12/31/2025.

• • Monitor function with the eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate)
  • Evaluate damage with the uACR (urine albumin-creatinine ration)

Did you know that despite recommendations, fewer than 50% of adults with diabetes receive evaluations of their kidney health?¹ Furthermore, patients often get the eGFR blood test but do not receive the uACR urine test. Both are crucial for proper assessment.

2. Eye Exam for Patients with Diabetes, or EED

Order a retinal or dilated eye exam, or fundus photography, before 12/31/2025.

• • Performed by ophthalmologist or optometrist

About 1 in 4 Americans with diabetes 40 years and older have diabetic retinopathy, which progresses such that 1 in 20 have their vision threatened.²

Please ensure your diabetic patients get the tests they need before the end of the year.

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Sources:

1. American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee. 2025. “11. Chronic Kidney Disease and Risk Management: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2025.” Diabetes Care 48(Suppl. 1):S239–51.
2. https://preventblindness.org/prevalence-of-diabetic-retinopathy-vehss/