Evidence-Based Optometry

Evidence-Based Optometry

Optometrists use many types of evidence to answer patients' questions. They draw upon knowledge learned in their OD programs; examine a patient's history, symptoms, and signs; and sometimes refer to medical textbooks or dictionaries. 

But what about the questions you may encounter in clinic that are not so easily answered?

In those cases, we recommend using evidence-based optometry. By the end of this tutorial you will be able to practice the steps of evidence-based optometry; in other words, you will be able to find high-quality evidence that is suitable for your patient's question and contains minimal bias. 

The steps for using evidence-based optometry are: ask, acquire, appraise, and apply.