A study carried out by Orbis International at clinics in Rwanda found high levels of patient satisfaction with artificial intelligence (AI)-based screening for diabetic retinopathy.
The research was published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology and conducted by the eye care non-profit in partnership with the Rwanda International Institute of Ophthalmology.
Dr Ciku Mathenge, principal investigator of the study and medical advisor for Orbis International, said: ‘Our research findings show that access to easy-to-use and conveniently located screening technologies allows patients to get the care they need and to prevent vision loss or blindness from diabetic retinopathy. The key now will be to ensure that such technologies become affordable and accessible to all.’
Orbis found more than 63% of the study participants preferred AI over human graders, which researchers suggested could be because the exam was integrated into existing appointments rather than requiring more time and travel for a separate visit to the eye clinic.