Impact of functional information upon healthcare outcomes: a randomized controlled clinical trial.

The goal most eye care providers is the preservation or improvement of visual function. Several test, such as the National Eye Institute's Visual Function Questionnaire (VFQ), have been developed to objectively quantify visual function. Although the usefulness of such functional tests are well documented for research and outcomes analysis, their utility in the daily practice of medicine is not clear. A study was conducted to assess the impact of the provision of functional information to provide on selected parameters. The results of the study suggest that the availability of the functional information expands the number of topics discussed by the provider and the patient, and the VFQ has a favorable influence on patient satisfaction. Although the CFQ dies appear to have some effect upon provider decision-making, the provider does not necessarily perceive this effect. The CFQ remains a valuable tool for research and outcome analysis, and the VFQ may have a favorable impact upon the daily practice of medicine. More research needs to be conducted to determine whether or not selected ophthalmic patients populations may benefit from functional test administered at the point of care.