Battle Creek VAMC Patient Base Statistical Analysis.

While rotating through the Battle Creek Veterans Administration Medical Center (BCV AMC) in Battle Creek Michigan as an optometry intern, I began a statistical analysis and profile of the patients there in order to gain a more complete understanding of the amount and types of patients that are examined at this facility in the Optometry Clinic. This exercise developed into a more intensive project which compiled a variety of statistics pertaining to the patient base during the period of June 1, 1992 to December 18, 1992. The six and a half months of data collecting aided in fulfilling the purpose of this project which was to derive a profile of ocular conditions and disorders which were examined, diagnosed, treated, and referred at the BCVAMC. In addition to this, the prevalence of prescription medications used by veterans Health Administration patients which commonly produce ocular side effects was also documented. It is my hope that this information will emphasize and support the need for continued optometric services within the VA system and demonstrate optometry's use of ophthalmic pharmaceuticals in a primary care setting.