On May 2, 2026, the Alliance for Healthcare from the Eye (AHE) gathered in Denver alongside the annual meeting of the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO), for its fifth convening. The meeting brought together clinicians, researchers, technologists, payers, health system leaders, and policymakers united by a shared goal of improving health via oculomics and connected care.
The theme, From Vision to Viability, reflected the field progress of Healthcare from the Eye from emerging concept to real-world implementation. Discussions moved beyond whether AI-enabled algorithms and oculomics can work to how these approaches can be scaled effectively for the benefit of patients and the broader healthcare system.
Themes from Denver
Sessions explored advances in AI-enabled detection of eye diseases including glaucoma and macular degeneration, as well as the growing potential for retinal imaging to support cardiovascular disease risk assessment. Real-world examples highlighted both the progress being made and the practical challenges of implementing these technologies at scale.
A multi-stakeholder panel, including members from the AHA’s Health Tech Advisory Group, examined the Alliance’s “eyecare as the front door” model: the idea that eye care settings can serve as accessible entry points for preventive care across multiple disease areas. Panelists noted encouraging clinical trial progress while. At also emphasizing remaining gaps in reimbursement, care coordination, downstream capacity, and accountability.
An afternoon workshop brought participants together to identify shared barriers and potential solutions. Key themes included interoperability, shared cost models, and the role of employers alongside traditional payers, areas where the Alliance can play a meaningful convening and advocacy role.
The Path Forward
The meeting closed with strong momentum and a clear direction. AHE will establish working groups focused on areas such as care pathway development, evidence generation, and interprofessional education. The Alliance is also progressing toward nonprofit status, which will expand its reach and strengthen its ability to advance this work.
Healthcare from the Eye is no longer a distant promise. The science is advancing, real-world programs are demonstrating impact, and the stakeholders needed to make this a standard part of care are increasingly aligned. The work ahead is to build the systems, pathways, and shared frameworks needed to bring these benefits to patients at scale.
We are grateful to everyone who joined us in Denver, in person and virtually, and look forward to continuing this work together.
Interested in getting involved? Learn more and connect with the Alliance.
