We all rely on artificial intelligence in our daily lives. From Siri to Google Maps and Netflix recommendations, AI is a constant presence. But did you know it is also transforming eye care and ophthalmology? From advanced diagnostics to research and personalized treatments, ophthalmic artificial intelligence (AI) is shaping the future of vision care.

Dr. James Tsai, president of the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai and system chair of ophthalmology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, is at the forefront of this transformation. A graduate of Stanford University School of Medicine, Dr. Tsai trained in glaucoma at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute and Moorfields Eye Hospital. He also holds a master’s in business administration from Vanderbilt University.

As the founding director of the Center for Ophthalmic Artificial Intelligence and Human Health, Dr. Tsai leads a team dedicated to integrating AI into eye care. He explains, “It would be wonderful to form a center where we shared all our collective knowledge and understanding of AI.” The Center focuses on how AI can improve patient outcomes and address systemic health challenges.

Ophthalmic AI is already enhancing diagnostics. At Mount Sinai, non-mydriatic fundus photography—a non-invasive imaging technique—is paired with AI to screen for diabetic retinopathy and other retinal diseases without requiring dilation drops. Dr. Tsai notes, “By integrating AI into primary care settings, we enable non-ophthalmologists to screen for blinding diseases, expediting diagnosis and treatment.”

Applications extend to glaucoma, where AI helps predict changes in visual fields and disease progression. These tools empower clinicians to tailor treatments to individual patients, improving outcomes and patient satisfaction.

AI’s potential to individualize treatment plans is transformative. Using patient data, imaging, and history, AI generates tailored recommendations. Yet, Dr. Tsai emphasizes that the clinician’s role remains indispensable: “Only I as the physician can individualize therapy because I understand the history of the patient.” This collaboration ensures that AI augments rather than replaces clinical decision-making.

Dr. Tsai’s team also explores AI’s potential in predicting systemic diseases. For example, retinal imaging may reveal early signs of cardiovascular issues, stroke, or Alzheimer’s disease.

Globally, AI is bridging healthcare gaps. Tele-ophthalmology combined with AI allows rural and underserved areas to access screening and care. Organizations like Orbis International are already using these tools to improve global health outcomes.

While promising, AI is not infallible. Dr. Tsai warns of inaccuracies: “AI does sometimes get it wrong. It’s our responsibility as specialists to validate AI outputs.” Additionally, he highlights the need for validated AI databases to ensure reliability and accuracy.

In the next three to five years, Dr. Tsai envisions retinal imaging becoming a standard part of primary care vital signs, alongside blood pressure and heart rate. Further advancements in home monitoring devices equipped with AI will empower patients to track their eye health remotely, reducing barriers to care and enhancing health equity.

AI in ophthalmology represents a monumental shift in healthcare. By augmenting clinical expertise and improving access to care, it ensures better outcomes for patients worldwide. As Dr. Tsai advises, “Stay knowledgeable. AI can make you incredibly informed, providing additional insight into your condition while serving as a tool for second opinions.”

Stay informed and support advancements in ophthalmic artificial intelligence to help transform vision care for future generations.