Aspire Rural Health System is proud to announce its participation in an innovative statewide initiative designed to improve diabetic eye screening rates and help prevent vision loss among individuals living with diabetes.
Through a partnership with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and the Michigan Center for Rural Health (MCRH), Aspire is participating in a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)-funded pilot program utilizing AEYE Health, one of the nation’s first FDA-approved, fully autonomous artificial intelligence (AI) technologies for diabetic retinopathy screening.
Diabetic retinopathy is one of the leading causes of vision loss among adults, yet many individuals with diabetes do not receive their recommended annual eye exam. Early detection is critical because the disease often develops without noticeable symptoms until vision has already been affected.
The AEYE Health technology allows patients to receive a diabetic retinal screening during a routine primary care visit. Using specialized retinal imaging, the AI analyzes images in real time and quickly determines whether signs of diabetic retinopathy are present. Patients who need additional evaluation can then be referred to an eye care specialist for comprehensive follow-up care.
Aspire Rural Health System is currently implementing this pilot within its Deckerville Family Medicine and Marlette Family Healthcare clinics, making it easier for patients to receive recommended diabetic eye screenings without the need for a separate appointment.
“By bringing this technology directly into our primary care clinics, we’re removing barriers that often prevent patients from receiving important preventive care,” said Laura Green, Director of Population Health. “This pilot allows us to identify eye disease earlier, improve access for our rural communities, and ultimately help preserve our patients’ vision.”
In addition to improving patient care, the pilot will evaluate how autonomous AI technology can be sustainably integrated into rural healthcare settings. By increasing screening rates and supporting reimbursement through established billing codes, the project also aims to improve quality outcomes, including diabetic eye exam measures recognized through HEDIS.
Aspire Rural Health System remains committed to expanding access to innovative, high-quality healthcare services and improving the health of the communities it serves.
For more information about diabetic eye screenings or to schedule an appointment, contact your Aspire Rural Health System primary care provider, or visit us online at www.AspireRHS.org.