title: Second opinion: a computer expert system designed to aid in the determination of spectacle lens prescriptions.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Expert systems (ESs) are computer programs that simulate the decision-making ability of human experts. In this project, an ES was developed that used optometric data and decision rules to determine spectacle lens prescription powers.
  
  
  METHODS
  Decision rules derived from clinical experience and standard references were provided to a commercially available shell program to create an ES called Second Opinion. The ES determined spherical, cylindrical, and add powers designed to provide maximum acuity consistent with a high probability of patient acceptance.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Second Opinion demonstrates how a computer program can be used to analyze optometric data and offer suggestions regarding lens prescriptions.
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002648:Child; D005103:Expert Systems; D005139:Eyeglasses; D006801:Humans; D055656:Prescriptions; D012017:Referral and Consultation