Adhering to Clinical Practice Guidelines 

Clinical practice guidelines are recommendations for patient care that combine the best available current scientific evidence and research with expert clinical opinion to recommend appropriate steps in the diagnosis, management, and treatment of patients. By adhering to appropriate clinical standards of care, you are ensuring consistency in health equity for all your patients and contributing to a cohesive approach to your patients’ overall clinical teams, improving overall patient care and safety. 
 
VSP follows the Clinical Practice Guidelines set forth by the American Optometric Association and the Preferred Practice Pattern^® Guidelines of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. In alignment with the American Diabetes Association, American Optometric Association, and American Academy of Ophthalmology, it is recommended that doctors of optometry perform a comprehensive dilated eye exam at least annually for patients with diabetes. Adherence to these guidelines helps provide quality, evidenced-based care for patients with diabetes, and the VSP Quality Assurance Team conducts chart reviews for patients with diabetes to ensure adherence to these guidelines.  
 
For more information on Clinical Practice Guidelines can be found in the VSP Provider Reference Manual through VSPOnline at eyefinity.com or vspprm.com, once logged in visit VSP Manual 2024 under Eye Exams select Clinical Practice Guidelines and select VSP WellVision Exam Components. Scroll down to Patients with Diabetes section for review and select Exam Documentation and Medical Record Documentation links from the side bar for additional guidance.