An optometric quality assurance program.
BACKGROUND
To be accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations (JCAHO), a health care facility must have an ongoing quality assurance program.


METHODS
In accordance with JCAHO Guidelines the Optometry Section at the Cleveland Veterans Administration Medical Center developed such a program as part of the Medical Center's hospital-wide ongoing quality assurance plan.


RESULTS
The methodology used to develop a quality assurance program is outlined. A discussion of how specific clinical indicators are used to monitor performance and/or patient outcomes is presented.


CONCLUSIONS
After the quality assurance monitoring period is completed the data is analyzed; if the outcome is unacceptable action must be taken to improve care. This dynamic process involves patient outcomes and enhances overall care.
Rich
C G
CG
VA Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106.
Yaniglos
S S
SS
Daniel
T E
TE
Halabis
J A
JA
D005901:Glaucoma / Q000628:therapy; D006068:Gonioscopy; D006801:Humans; D009820:Ohio; D009907:Optometry / Q000592:standards*; D011785:Quality Assurance, Health Care; D014481:United States; D014493:United States Department of Veterans Affairs; D014794:Visual Fields