Namaste Yogis. Welcome to the Blockchain & AI Forum, where your questions are answered! Today’s question: what is the state of artificial intelligence in optometry?
Let’s begin with a definition of optometry. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), optometry is “a health care profession that is autonomous, educated, and regulated, and optometrists are the primary health care practitioners of the eye and visual system who provide comprehensive eye and vision care, which includes refraction and dispensing, detection/diagnosis and management of disease in the eye, and the rehabilitation of conditions of the visual system.” Now we listen to optometrists, beginning with their attitudes towards AI and willingness to use this new technology.
Optometrists are bullish on AI. According to a recent survey published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, more than 2/3 of the 400 survey participants said they were familiar with the potential of AI in optometry. https://www.eyecarebusiness.ca/practice/the-potential-of-artificial-intelligence-in-optometry/ That’s the good news because everything starts with awareness. Although, 53% expressed concerned with diagnostic accuracy of AI, nevertheless 72% believed AI will improve the practice of optometry. Somewhat contradictory, right? Moreover, 65% reported they are willing to incorporate AI in their own practice.
AI Enhances Diagnostic Precision and Strategic Planning. Using the specific examples below, let’s explore, in detail, the potential of AI to enhance diagnostic precision and strategic planning within the field of optometry practice.
Early Detection. No human can compete with AI’s ability to process vast amounts of data. In optometry, data analysis is essential for certain actions, e.g. when processing optical coherence tomography (OCT) images and retinal images. AI can detect patterns within these images that optometrists might miss for any number of reasons, ranging from optometrist fatigue to improper training.
Diabetic Retinopathy. AI can be particularly effective at monitoring images over time and spot changes that lead to eye diseases that manifest progressively.
Glaucoma. Glaucoma can lead to blindness. However, there is emerging AI technology that offers plenty of promise for those severing from glaucoma. For examples, AI has the potential to detect glaucoma by fundus photographs, and optical coherence tomography (OCT). Specifically, AI is beneficial for open-angle glaucoma cases where symptoms don’t typically exhibit themselves.
Reduce False Positives. A false positive happens when test results shows a disease is present when it isn’t. With AI, and its ability to process vast quantities of data, false positives are reduced.
Office Management. Although not directly related to optometry, but nevertheless significant, is the ability of AI to automate office procedures. For example, repetitive tasks such as scheduling, billing, and follow-ups can be done on the fly and updated in patient records as new information is received. This boost in productivity means more time to focus on patient care, which of course is the point of optometry; not paperwork.
Myopia and Contact Lense Design. In a recent research report from China, the Chinese claim to be making significant progress with AI, specifically related to designing customizable contact lenses. Furthermore, the Chinese report myopia treatment advancements via the use of AI. See this link:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10475639/
Strategic Planning. AI’s ability to capture and analyze vast qualities means optometrists can prepare treatments that are tailored to the individual depending on specific conditions. No more generic remedies. In other words, AI is capable of detecting changes from commencement, and therefore optometrists can formulate health plans tailored to individual patients. Check this link for more information: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7080/13/2/77
As the famous rock group, Coldplay, once said: “…See You Soon…”
Until next time,
Yogi Nelson
Blockchain & AI Forum 