Purpose: To determine the type and frequency of consultations with the eye department of a major tertiary care teaching hospital.
Methods: A retrospective review was undertaken of the medical records of npatient consultations within the Ophthalmology Department of Royal Prince Alfred Hospital over the period from July 1995 to 30 June 1997. The consults were dvided into sx types of consultation. A determination was made of the outcome and effect on patient management of each consultation.
Results: There were 506 consultations over the 2-year period. For 389 patients a full ophthalmic assessment was requested and 175 of them (45%) had an ophthalmological diagnosis made or had change in management as a result of the consultation.
Conclusion: Ophthalmological consultation is a valuable npatient consultation service that makes a significant difference in the management of patients from other medical and surgical units within the hospital.