An artificial intelligence (AI) programme has the potential to prevent irreversible sight loss by spotting the key signs of eye disease as well as world-leading experts can, a study has found. The system, which draws on data from thousands of NHS patients, could ensure patients with serious eye conditions receive vital early treatment. Early trials of the programme, developed by scientists at Moorfields Eye Hospital, University College London, and Google's DeepMind AI research centre, have been so promising it could be rolled out at 30 UK hospitals within three years. "The number of eye scans we're performing is growing at a pace much faster than human experts are able to interpret them," said Dr Pearse Keane from Moorfields. "There is a risk that this may cause delays in the diagnosis and treatment of sight-threatening diseases, which can be devastating for patients. "The AI technology we're developing is designed to prioritise patients who need to be seen and treated urgently by a doctor or eye care professional.