The world is in the midst of a diabetes epidemic with an estimated 415 million people with diabetes. That number is expected to grow to 642 million by 2040. Those with diabetes are at risk of diabetic retinopathy, the leading cause of blindness in working-age adults. Diabetic retinopathy results in high costs to personal welfare and to global economics. The economic impact of diabetic retinopathy in the United States alone is $4.3 billion annually.
Current diabetic retinopathy screening guidelines rely on an interpretation by an eye care professional. Compliance with these guidelines is low due to lack of easy access to specialists and high costs. I-Rx’s EYESTAR+™ software employs an algorithm that immediately classifies the patient as a “refer” or “non-refer” to an ophthalmologist. This software-driven approach is adaptable to most existing retinal cameras. It can also detect other retinal diseases.
With regular screenings and earlier diagnosis, diabetic retinopathy-caused blindness can be avoided. With EYESTAR+™ automated reading system, primary care physicians can do screenings in their office and secure immediate results – there is no second appointment for screenings. Only patients whose results indicate the need for a thorough exam receive referrals to eye care specialists, eliminating the cost of unnecessary visits.