You can be referred to a Target 5000 clinic through your own eye doctor, Fighting Blindness, an optometrist or other national support services.
You will receive an appointment to attend a Target 5000 clinic. Please visit our Frequently Asked Questions to learn more about what is involved.
You will be asked to give a blood or saliva sample which is sent to Trinity College Dublin for research grade genetic testing.
If the disease causing gene has been identified, your sample is sent for clinically-accredited testing. This is called a clinical-grade genetic test result. At this stage, a genetic counsellor can then deliver the results of the genetic testing process to you and your family.
If the disease causing gene mutation cannot be identified, the scientists will continue searching using alternative research techniques and updated programming software.
Your clinical and genetic information will be added to a national registry.