A Scottish technology company has developed artificial intelligence software that could help tackle growing pressure on eye care services in the NHS and healthcare systems worldwide.

Eye to the Future’s software helps improve referral rates to hospital eye services at a time when NHS ophthalmology waiting lists have grown by 138% since 2012.

“Only 24% of NHS eye units currently believe they have enough consultants to meet demand,” said Professor Emanuele Trucco, co-founder of Eye to the Future. 

“By using sophisticated analytics tools to help optometrists make more accurate referral decisions, we can ensure the right patients get specialist care at the right time, while reducing unnecessary hospital appointments.”

The company’s technology analyses images from routine eye examinations to help identify early signs of conditions like glaucoma.

It was a runner-up at the 2022 Converge pitching programme, which works with Scotland’s universities to empower academic entrepreneurs. Through Converge, the company received funding that helped to transform its research into commercial technology.

Applications for Converge 2025 open today. The programme, which has supported the creation of more than 425 companies since 2011, offers participants intensive business training, networking opportunities and access to expert advice alongside equity-free cash prizes worth over £300,000.

Animal health pioneer honoured

The pioneering CEO of MI:RNA, a Scotland-based veterinary diagnostics company, has been honoured with an accolade in Orlando, Florida.

Recognised for her outstanding contributions to the animal health industry, particularly her dedication to empowering women in the field, Dr Eve Hanks was presented with the inaugural Entrepreneurial Spirit Feather in Her Cap award, by by Julia Stephanus from Borealis Ventures.

Established in 2017, the Feather in Her Cap awards aim to celebrate the achievements of women in animal health and serve to inspire the next generation of industry leaders.

Earlier this year MI:RNA opened a lab facility at the University of Georgia in Athens to enhance access to advanced diagnostics across the southeastern United States.