Dubai’s Medcare Hospital Al Safa introduces AI-driven retinal imaging system Airdoc

Dubai's Medcare Hospital Al Safa is setting a new standard in healthcare with the introduction of Airdoc, an AI-driven retinal imaging system. This revolutionary technology can diagnose over 35 eye conditions and assess risks for 9 chronic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, in just three minutes — making it a major breakthrough in early disease detection and preventive healthcare.

Dr. Shanila Laiju, Group CEO of Medcare, emphasized, "Our objective is to be pioneers, always advancing our medical procedures and technologies to deliver the highest level of care for our patients."

How does it work?

Airdoc utilizes an advanced fundus camera to capture high-resolution images of a patient's retina. Within minutes, AI algorithms analyze the images to generate a detailed health report. This report identifies potential risks for various conditions, including diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration.

The AI system operates with over 95% accuracy, offering rapid, non-invasive assessments covered by insurance, ensuring wide accessibility.

Why does it matter?

Early detection is critical in managing chronic diseases, which often progress silently without noticeable symptoms. The Airdoc system's ability to spot conditions like hypertension, anemia, and diabetes before symptoms arise allows for timely intervention — potentially preventing severe health outcomes.

Dr. Brajesh Mittal, Head of Cardiology at Medcare, noted, "Our eyes are the windows to the heart and body. Airdoc utilizes this window to assess cardiovascular and other health risks."

The device facilitates swift diagnoses and enables preventive care, a fundamental shift towards proactive health management.

The context

The initial deployment of Airdoc in May 2024 at Medcare Hospital Al Safa reflects the hospital's ongoing commitment to innovative healthcare. Over 200 patients have already undergone retinal scanning, with nearly 7% of them identified as asymptomatic yet at risk for chronic conditions.

This adoption marks a significant step forward in the UAE's healthcare landscape, with Medcare leading efforts to integrate AI solutions into patient care for enhanced outcomes. By identifying potential disease risks early, even among asymptomatic individuals, Airdoc exemplifies how AI is transforming healthcare delivery.