AOA asks for input on evidence-based eyecare guideline for diabetics

St. Louis-Healthcare reform comes with strict new government standards for evidence-based health care. Now, the first guideline developed to help optometrists meet those standards is available for review http://www.aoa.org/optometrists/tools-and-resources/evidenced-based-optometry/cpg-3--eye-care-of-the-patient-with-diabetes-mellitus and public input during a 30-day comment period.

Practicing optometrists, along with the general public and other stakeholders, can review the AOA Evidence-Based Guideline on Eye Care of the Patient with Diabetes Mellitus and submit comments for consideration, according to the AOA Evidence-Based Optometry Committee.

“The guideline was developed over the past 2 years by an internationally recognized, interdisciplinary panel of leading eyecare practitioners, health policy experts, and patient advocates,” says Diane T. Adamczyk, OD, chair of the committee. “It is designed to provide useful guidance for optometrists in day-to-day practice. It also offers definitive optometric norms and recommendations that will be recognized and respected by all segments of the health care community.”

Institute of Medicine (IOM) guideline development standards call for external review from relevant stakeholders, including scientific and clinical experts, organizations, agencies, patients, and representatives of the public. With that in mind, optometrists have a chance to review and submit comments through an e-form. Comments may then be incorporated in the document.

To participate in the review process, record all comments and suggestions on the Peer & Public Review Document available here. Save the document and forward to QualityImprovement@aoa.org, or by mailing or faxing to: 

AOA Guideline Development Group
American Optometric Association
243 N. Lindbergh Blvd., Floor 1
St. Louis, MO 63141


FAX: 314-991-4101

The document will be accessible for review online for 30 days. Comments will be accepted until Nov. 30. The AOA Evidence-Based Optometry Committee plans to release a final version of the guideline in January 2014.