The Kerala government has launched Nayanamritham 2.0, an innovative AI-based eye screening initiative designed for the early detection of chronic eye diseases. This program, developed in collaboration with health-tech company Remidio, is the first of its kind globally, being a government-led AI-assisted screening effort for conditions such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy (DR), and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). By enhancing access to quality eye care, Kerala is further incorporating artificial intelligence into its public health framework, ensuring that advanced eye screening services are available to a larger population throughout the state.
The first version of Nayanamritham, launched earlier, focused primarily on diabetic retinopathy screenings conducted at Family Health Centers (FHCs). Patients who were found to have potential problems were referred to secondary and tertiary care centers, where ophthalmologists conducted further evaluations. This initiative established a basis for incorporating AI-driven eye screening into Kerala’s public healthcare system.
With Nayanamritham 2.0, the scope of screening has expanded. The AI-powered fundus cameras by Remidio can now detect glaucoma and AMD, in addition to diabetic retinopathy. These cameras quickly determine whether cases are referable or non-referable, ensuring quicker diagnoses and prompt interventions. Furthermore, the screening program has expanded from FHCs to include Community Health Centers, Taluk Hospitals, and District Hospitals, improving access to eye care services for a broader population.
With this initiative, Kerala has become the first government-led public health system globally to integrate AI for eye disease screening. By embedding Remidio’s AI technology into the existing workflow, the government aims to enhance efficiency, scalability, and cost-effectiveness in eye screenings. The goal is to reduce preventable blindness by identifying high-risk cases early and ensuring timely referrals to specialists.
