Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Ophthalmology Emergency Clinic Intake Forms

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of a novel patient intake form in an emergency ophthalmology clinic at a Canadian academic center. Despite the popularity of intake forms, they have not been previously reported in the literature in an emergency ophthalmology clinic setting. Methods: All new patients at the University of Ottawa emergency ophthalmology clinic were provided with a patient intake form to complete while waiting to be seen. Ophthalmology residents and nurses at the University of Ottawa completed an effectiveness survey evaluating the benefits of these forms after 24 months of use. Emergency ophthalmology clinics at other Canadian academic institutions were questioned regarding their use of patient intake forms.  Results: Nine residents and two nurses completed the effectiveness survey. The mean (SD) score assessing the use of the form (1=never, 5=every patient encounter) was 3.90 (1.20). The greatest perceived benefit involved improved clinic efficiency (91%). All (100%) of responses indicated that the form should continue to be used in practice. Of the other 14 ophthalmology residency programs in Canada, nine currently do not use an intake form, two have forms completed by nurses and three utilize a form but are dissatisfied with their results. Conclusions: Our results suggest that there are benefits with respect to clinic efficiency, accuracy of medical information, collaboration between healthcare professionals, and patient satisfaction when utilizing patient intake forms in an emergency ophthalmology setting. The use of similar forms may provide an opportunity to improve clinical practice at other academic institutions within Canada.