By broadening exam access via seamless cloud-based technology, IRIS is enabling more physicians to identify patients at risk of blindness

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif.Feb. 2, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Based on its recent analysis of the diabetic retinopathy market, Frost & Sullivan recognizes US-based Intelligent Retinal Imaging Systems (IRIS) with the 2015 North America Frost & Sullivan Award for New Product Innovation. IRIS, a prominent cloud-based retinal exam technology provider in North America, is poised to set the new industry standard in the rapidly growing diabetic retinopathy market. The IRIS technology presents superior price-performance value through products designed for diverse therapeutic applications, while aiding an improved, yet simplified, exam.

IRIS is seeking to transform the market by offering an end-to-end screening solution for primary care providers to rapidly identify patients with diabetic retinopathy. The technology was developed with an affordable, integrated software solution that not only facilitates early detection but also enhances patient care.

"The IRIS technology can both assess and detect the presence of micro aneurysms at the back of the eye, one of the first signs of diabetic retinopathy," said Frost & Sullivan Research Analyst Swathi Allada. "The retinal imaging system, along with telemedicine, offers numerous advantages such as timely intervention, better treatment outcomes and elimination of the need for a non-physician eye care professional."

The only FDA-approved, telemedicine solution for diabetic retinopathy
IRIS features a fully automated, affordable, non-mydriatic fundus camera, which requires minimal training for operation. The IRIS technology is the only Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-cleared, class II device indicated for use as a telemedicine platform to screen patients for diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, glaucoma and other suspected conditions.

Because IRIS is a web-based software system application for storing, managing and displaying patient data, it has the potential to broadly impact the healthcare landscape in the United States and across the globe. The retinal images, which are captured in the primary care setting, are transmitted to either a remote retinal specialist or an ophthalmologist for diagnosis.

A model for accountable care
The technology enables painless retinal exam and is administrated at a physician's office, making the process affordable and encouraging more patients to screen for the disease. Furthermore, IRIS helps insurance payers achieve a five-star Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) rating and exceed other quality measures.

"IRIS is the only screening solution that is managed and supported by a network of highly-skilled retina specialists," noted Ms. Allada. "It has established clinical partnerships with university health systems, integrated delivery networks, accountable care organizations, private practices, non-profits and federally qualified health centers across the United States."

For its understanding of customer needs and development of a novel product that addresses those needs in the diabetic retinopathy market, Frost & Sullivan is pleased to present IRIS with the 2015 North America Frost & Sullivan Award for New Product Innovation.

Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents this award to the company that has developed an innovative element in a product by leveraging leading-edge technologies. The award recognizes the value-added features/benefits of the product and the increased ROI it offers customers, which, in turn, improves customer acquisition and overall market penetration potential.

"Recognition from a trusted and renowned research partner like Frost and Sullivan for our ability to improve the quality of life of diabetic retinopathy patients is incredibly validating," says Jason Crawford, Chief Executive Officer, IRIS. "The 2015 New Product Innovation award is a testament to our commitment to end preventable blindness, and it establishes the IRIS system as the new industry benchmark in a rapidly growing."

Frost & Sullivan Best Practices awards recognize companies in a variety of regional and global markets for demonstrating outstanding achievement and superior performance in areas such as leadership, technological innovation, customer service and strategic product development. Industry analysts compare market participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analysis and extensive secondary research to identify best practices in the industry.

About Intelligent Retinal Imaging Systems (IRIS)

Intelligent Retinal Imaging Systems (http://www.retinalscreenings.com/) is a leader in providing cloud-based services with a vision to save sight for millions of people through the development of exam services that enhance preventive care. The IRIS team of physicians, technicians, and change management experts has developed breakthrough cloud-based services that have the potential to broadly impact the healthcare landscape in the United States and around the world.  

The IRIS board of advisors is comprised of some of the top medical and business thought-leaders in the country. Additionally, IRIS is backed by the resources of United States Retina, a nation-wide affiliation of top retina surgeons and practices. IRIS also works with Lions Eye Institute to provide screenings at events across the southern United States, and works closely with the Florida Institute for Human and Machine Cognition (IHMC) to advance technologies in the healthcare space.

About Frost & Sullivan

Frost & Sullivan, the Growth Partnership Company, works in collaboration with clients to leverage visionary innovation that addresses the global challenges and related growth opportunities that will make or break today's market participants.

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