The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Optometric Diagnostics and Research: Deep Learning and Time-Series Forecasting Applications

This study introduces an Artificial Intelligence framework based on the Deep Learning model Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers framework trained on a dataset from 2000–2023. The AI tool categorizes articles into six classes: Contactology, Low Vision, Refractive Surgery, Pediatrics, Myopia, and Dry Eye, with supervised learning enhancing classification accuracy, achieving F1-Scores averaging 86.4%, AUC at 0.98, Precision at 87%, and Accuracy at 86.8% via one-shot training, while Epoch training showed 85.9% Accuracy and 92.8% Precision. Utilizing the Artificial Intelligence model outputs, the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average model provides forecasts from all classes through 2030, predicting decreases in research interest for Contactology, Low Vision, and Refractive Surgery but increases for Myopia and Dry Eye due to rising prevalence and lifestyle changes. Stability is expected in pediatric research, highlighting its focus on early detection and intervention. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of AI in enhancing diagnostic precision and strategic planning in optometry, with potential implications for broader clinical applications and improved accessibility to eye care.