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.