Utilizing a Systematic Approach to Fitting Gas-Permeable Contact Lenses.

Background: The fit of a gas-permeable contact lens requires a thorough examination of patients to ultimately achieve a proper fit for optimal visual outcomes and patient satisfaction. Imperative data for determination of the fit of a gas-permeable contact lens includes determining the diameter of lens, base curve, evaluation of the fit, and power necessary which are all utilized with intentions to achieve an aligned fit with superb visual acuity. How will a succinct and systematic contact lens card guide an optometric clinician in the selection of an ideal gas-permeable for a patient? Methods: The current Michigan College of Optometry Gas-Permeable Contact Lens Card will be evaluated and formatting and content changes will be made. The original and updated cards will be compared amongst a designated population of 20-30 optometric clinicians, including students and practicing optometrists, with specific cases to be worked through. A rating scale consisting of convenience, ease of use, accuracy, etc. will be completed by the subjects, and data will be analyzed as to which card is recognized as a better clinical tool. Results: The results of this study will focus on convenience, ease of use, accuracy, and other factors contributing to the success of the practitioner utilizing the gas-permeable contact lens card in achieving a successful fit for each case patient. The results will determine that a succinct and systematic contact lens card is necessary and valuable to achieve success and patient satisfaction in the fit of a gas-permeable contact lens. Conclusions: The clinical relevance of this project will impact efficiency, practitioner confidence, patient satisfaction, and overall success with gas-permeable contact lenses in practice. Having a systematic card to use as a clinical tool will serve as an invaluable pocket tool for achieving success in contact lens practice