Emerging Technologies in Eye Care

A look at teleretina adoption in primary care settings along with how AI has evolved to situate itself within the teleretina framework.

By
Julie Greenbaum, editor
June 17, 2026
5 min

Optometric Management

Overview

This report discusses the adoption of teleretina in primary care and the evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in eye care. Key insights include the importance of clinician involvement in technology integration.

Background

The integration of emerging technologies in eye care is crucial for expanding the scope of practice for optometrists. Teleretina services have been successfully implemented in various healthcare settings, demonstrating their effectiveness in screening for conditions like diabetic retinopathy.

Data Highlights

No numerical data provided in the source material.

Key Findings

Teleretina has been successfully used in agencies like Veterans Affairs and Indian Health Service for over two decades.
AI can significantly reduce turnaround times for image reading and reporting in teleretina services.
AI solutions are being developed for autonomous detection of diabetic retinopathy, such as Digital Diagnostics’ LumineticsCore.
AI's impact in eye care is expected to be more pronounced at the national level rather than in private practice settings.
Clinicians must be aware of AI bias and the use of AI by patients for medical guidance.

Clinical Implications

Optometrists should actively engage with emerging technologies to enhance patient care and ensure responsible use of AI. Understanding the capabilities and limitations of AI will enable clinicians to have informed discussions with patients regarding their care.

Conclusion

The adoption of teleretina and AI in eye care presents significant opportunities for improving diagnostic accuracy and patient management. Clinicians must remain informed and involved in these technological advancements.