Shaping the future: The AI in Eye Care Summit

While AI presents exciting possibilities, our members also voiced key concerns that must be addressed: 

• 55% believe AI could positively impact patient-practitioner relationships, but 23% worry it may have a negative effect
• younger respondents (18-34 years old) were more sceptical, with a higher likelihood of believing that the technology could weaken the human connection in healthcare
• free-text responses revealed concerns about data security, job security, AI accuracy, and regulatory oversight

Some respondents stressed the importance of human oversight, ethical AI use, and clear guidance for professionals on how to integrate AI safely and effectively into their work. There was also concern about patients using AI for self-diagnosis, potential misuse of AI-generated information, and a call to ensure AI tools are developed in collaboration with eye care professionals. 

During the AI in Eye Care Summit, stakeholders will take these insights forward. Discussions will focus on developing best practices for AI in diagnosis, triage, and patient communication, establishing ethical guidelines, and safeguarding patient-practitioner relationships. They will also discuss how to ensure transparency and accountability in AI decision-making and inform clear recommendations and professional guidance for AI implementation. 

Following the Summit, we will share the key outcomes, action plans and guidelines that emerge from these discussions and a wider expert consensus process we are running. There will be opportunities for you to engage, contribute, and stay informed as new initiatives develop.