Western Cape deploys AI for stroke diagnosis and diabetes screening in Public health push

From retinal imaging in Khayelitsha clinics to real-time brain scan analysis at Groote Schuur, the province is rolling out artificial intelligence tools as part of a R2.4 billion investment in health infrastructure.

The Western Cape government is integrating artificial intelligence into two of its most pressing public health challenges, diabetic eye disease and stroke treatment, as part of a broader upgrade of the province's healthcare infrastructure.

Premier Alan Winde outlined the initiative during the State of the Province Address delivered in George, where he announced a R2.4 billion investment in new and improved health facilities over a three-year period.

In Khayelitsha, where diabetes rates are high and specialist eye care is under strain, four primary healthcare clinics have introduced AI-assisted retinal screening. Staff have been trained to capture retinal images, which are then assessed by an AI diagnostic tool that evaluates the likelihood and severity of conditions such as diabetic retinopathy. Patients flagged as requiring urgent attention are referred directly to a specialist. Winde, who noted he is diabetic himself and used the service, described the technology as impressive in both its precision and accessibility.

According to reporting by ITWeb Africa, the province is also rolling out an AI-powered CT brain imaging system at Groote Schuur Hospital, developed in partnership with the University of Cape Town. The system is designed to reduce the time it takes to analyse brain scans in stroke cases, a critical factor given that treatment delays can result in permanent disability. The platform connects clinical teams across several hospitals, including Mitchells Plain, New Somerset, Victoria, and George, allowing specialists to review cases remotely in real time through a telestroke network.

"This technology enables clinicians to analyse brain scans almost instantly, improving diagnostic speed and accuracy so that treatment can begin sooner," Winde said. "Earlier intervention significantly improves outcomes, helping to protect speech, movement, independence and lives."

The premier was careful to frame the technology as a support tool rather than a replacement for medical staff, describing it as a way to give clinicians faster information, better decision support, and access to remote expertise in areas where specialists are not always available on site.