Digital Values for Alpha Acuities.

PURPOSE: The lack of consistent data formatting for visual acuity in electronic medical records has led to inefficient data extraction and analysis.

METHODS

Prior acuity efforts were reviewed and analyzed relative to alpha-designated visual acuity. Prominent electronic medical record formatting was reviewed.

RESULTS

A table was generated facilitating the assignment of digital values to alpha acuities for metric and United States designation including centered steady maintained for infants and counting fingers, hand motions, light perception, and no light perception for patients with low vision.

DISCUSSION: Consistent and usable visual acuity data should lead to better research and eventually improve physician burn-out. [J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus. 2021;58(2):132-135.].