Artificial Intelligence is continuing to reshape healthcare, and the latest move from Bausch + Lomb signals that digital health is becoming an increasingly important sector of the future of ophthalmology.
The global eye health company has unveiled Orphia™, an AI-powered digital health platform developed under its newly established Digital Health Services division. Designed to improve patient engagement and boost clinical workflows, the platform marks Bausch + Lomb's first major step into the rapidly evolving digital health landscape.
Unlike many digital health solutions tied to specific products or treatment pathways, Orphia™ has been built as a brand-agnostic platform. Allowing eyecare professionals to integrate the technology into their existing clinical processes regardless of the products, devices or treatments used.
The launch reflects a broader strategic shift for Bausch + Lomb, recognising that innovation in ophthalmology is no longer limited to pharmaceuticals, surgical technologies or medical devices. Digital tools that improve patient communication and clinical efficiency are becoming an essential part of delivering modern eye care.
The first application of Orphia™ focuses on pre-surgical cataract education. Preparing for cataract surgery often involves multiple conversations, educational materials and patient questions. Orphia™ aims to make this process more accessible by providing AI-powered, conversational education that helps patients better understand their condition, explore available treatment options and prepare for informed discussions with their ophthalmologist. By giving patients greater confidence before their consultation, clinicians can spend more time focusing on shared decision-making rather than explaining routine information.
One of the key themes behind the platform is that artificial intelligence should support healthcare professionals rather than replace them. Built using conversational AI technology, Orphia™ is designed to improve patient understanding while reducing some of the administrative and educational burden placed on clinical teams. This allows ophthalmologists and practice staff to dedicate more time to delivering personalised care where it matters most. As healthcare systems continue to face increasing patient demand and workforce pressures, solutions that improve operational efficiency without compromising quality of care are becoming increasingly valuable.
Bausch + Lomb's expansion into digital health highlights how rapidly the ophthalmic industry is evolving. Artificial intelligence is already transforming diagnostics, imaging and clinical decision support. The next stage of innovation is increasingly centred on improving the patient experience through connected digital platforms that strengthen communication, education and engagement throughout the care journey. As more organisations invest in AI-powered healthcare solutions, digital health is set to become an integral part of ophthalmology, not simply as a technology trend, but as a practical way to enhance both clinical workflows and patient outcomes. At Vision Executives, we continue to monitor the latest developments shaping the future of eyecare. From artificial intelligence and digital health to diagnostics, surgical innovation and connected care, we're committed to sharing the technologies and leadership trends driving the next generation of ophthalmology.