What does an ophthalmoscope allow healthcare providers to examine?

An ophthalmoscope is a specialized instrument used by healthcare providers to examine the internal structures of the eye, specifically the back of the eye, which includes the retina, optic disc, and the blood vessels. This examination is vital as it allows for the assessment of various eye conditions, such as retinal detachments, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma, as well as systemic diseases that may affect the eye, like hypertension or diabetes. By providing a clear view of these structures, the ophthalmoscope plays a crucial role in diagnosing and monitoring both ocular and systemic health issues. The other options refer to different systems of the body that are not assessed using an ophthalmoscope, such as the ear, respiratory, and circulatory systems.