Ethical Digital Health in Action
At ONA, we believe that digital health technology must be developed and deployed ethically, with respect for privacy, equity, and human dignity. As we work to expand access to eye health screening, we remain firmly committed to these principles.
Privacy and Data Protection
ONA is designed with privacy at its core. Patient data is collected only with informed consent, stored securely, and used solely for the purpose of facilitating eye health screening and referral. We do not sell or share data with third parties for commercial purposes.
Our offline-first architecture also means that data can be collected and stored locally on devices, reducing the risk of unauthorized access through network vulnerabilities.
Equity and Accessibility
ONA is explicitly designed for low-resource settings where access to eye care is limited. By enabling screening without requiring internet connectivity or expensive equipment, we aim to reduce barriers and ensure that underserved communities can benefit from early detection.
Technology should serve everyone, not just those with resources or connectivity. ONA is built to work in the most challenging environments because that's where it's needed most.
Screening, Not Diagnosis
ONA is a screening tool, not a diagnostic or treatment solution. We are clear about the limitations of the technology and emphasize the importance of referral to qualified eye care professionals for diagnosis and treatment.
This approach respects the expertise of ophthalmologists and ensures that individuals receive appropriate care from trained clinicians.
- Informed consent and data privacy
- Secure data storage and handling
- Designed for low-resource settings
- Screening only, not diagnosis
- Transparent about limitations
- Community engagement and feedback
Community Engagement
We engage closely with communities to understand their needs, address concerns, and ensure that ONA is culturally appropriate and trusted. Community feedback is essential for refining the platform and ensuring it serves those who need it most.
Ethical digital health is not just about technology—it's about relationships, trust, and a commitment to serving communities with respect and integrity.
