The application of a computerised diagnostic index for ophthalmic practice.

All 2792 patients seen in my private practice between July 1989 and September 1992 and receiving a diagnosis were coded according to the International Classification of Diseases-9 (Clinical Modification), 1979. Any procedures performed were coded according to the American Medical Association Current Procedural Terminology. Patient details and codes were filed by computer using a customised database in Foxpro 2.0 software. Those with minor refractive error or presbyopia alone and those who had no abnormality were excluded from the database. The set-up and maintenance of this diagnostic index is described and the database structure is specified. A modification of the glaucoma section of ICD-9, which better suited my needs, is presented. Examples of the potential information available from such a database is described, including some analysis of this general ophthalmic practice.