André Larente on DIAGNOS’ Partnership with EssilorLuxottica to Expand AI Retinal Analysis and Offers Updates on Regulatory Approvals

In a recent interview with InvestorNews host Pat Bolland, André Larente, President, CEO, and Director of DIAGNOS Inc. (TSXV: ADK | OTCQB: DGNOF), discussed the company’s journey in the healthcare AI sector, focusing on their flagship product, the Computer Assisted Retina Analysis (CARA). DIAGNOS has transitioned from multiple AI applications to specialize solely in retinal analysis, which has been under development for over eight years. Larente emphasized the company’s efforts to ensure that CARA is adaptable for various cultures by collecting data from over 400,000 patients across 14 countries. He noted, “We decided to drop all the other applications we were doing and really specialize in this healthcare phenomenon,” highlighting the company's focus on early detection of diabetic retinopathy, hypertensive retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Larente also underscored the cost-effectiveness of CARA, with general tests priced at $10 and additional tests at $5, making it accessible for optometrists and patients alike. A significant part of DIAGNOS' recent developments is its strategic partnership with EssilorLuxottica, the largest single player in the global eyewear market, which dominates the industry with approximately 300,000 optometry sites worldwide. Larente explained the importance of this agreement, stating, “We can’t hire 1,000 salespeople... they have established relationships that you can’t beat.” This partnership allows DIAGNOS to expand its market reach, particularly in North America, where Essilor will address 5,500 stores in Canada and 65,000 in the US. Additionally, Larente discussed DIAGNOS’ plans to obtain regulatory approvals from Health Canada and the US FDA for their suite of retinal analysis tests, which are expected to be approved by the end of the year. He pointed out that regulatory approvals and certifications, such as the recently obtained ISO 13485/MDSAP audit, are crucial in ensuring the company’s credibility in the healthcare market.