The reach of artificial intelligence (AI) seems to grow by the day. Of course, it is not new in the field of healthcare, or even eye care. When seeking out any medical care in the past 5 to 10 years, you have probably noticed the great leaps in technology and maybe even spotted some AI specifically being incorporated into your check-ups and treatment.
So, how is AI used in eye care?
AI can quickly and efficiently analyze large amounts of information, including images, patient data, diagnoses, treatment plans, etc., for your provider. Eye doctors can use the information AI captures to help with diagnoses, make treatment plans and recommend follow-up. The speed with which AI can accomplish these tasks means office visits may be shorter.
AI also opens up the possibilities for telehealth and virtual eye doctor visits for patients including those who may not live close to a provider. AI enables detailed scans to be performed remotely. Virtual care can also be very convenient for people with healthy eyes who need to renew a prescription if their eyesight has not changed. Then, people can purchase their prescription glasses or contacts more easily, especially when shopping online, so no in-person step is needed.
One of the best uses of AI is the ability to analyze retinal scans to detect serious eye conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration and more. This is extremely important because these eye conditions can begin with no pain or obvious symptoms.
Though AI technology is exciting, it won’t be replacing your eye professionals anytime soon. There are still tests, procedures and treatments that must be done in office, in person. Your eye doctor will not rely on AI alone. They will review and monitor its work and use it as one of many tools to provide care.
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This information in this post is for general educational purposes only and does not warrant or represent any information as related to health as specifically appropriate for you. It is not intended to be medical advice or replace the relationship that you have with your health care providers. You should always seek medical advice on any diagnosis or treatment from a qualified health care provider. The information is provided “as is” without any representations or warranties, express or implied.
