Medical Record Validation of Self-Reported Eye Care Utilization in Older African Americans and Caucasians

Objective: To examine the association between self-reported eye care utilization and that verified by medical record review in African American and Caucasian older adults. Previous estimates of eye care utilization rates for these populations are largely based on questionnaire self-reports, which leads to the question as to the validity of such reports. Methods: Data on eye care utilization was collected as part of a population-based study on older adults age ≥ 70 years old living in north central Alabama. Self-reports of previous eye care utilization was collected using the Visual Impairment and Access to Eye Care Module of the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. Information regarding actual eye care utilization was based on medical records obtained from optometrists or ophthalmologists that participants reported visiting most recently. This record pertained to the most recent eye exam, whether it was dilated or not. Results: Currently 1,974 persons are enrolled, and the target sample size of 2,000 will be reached by the end of August 2011. Analyses will focus on comparing the agreement between self-reported and actual eye care utilization and eye disease diagnoses and whether this agreement differs according to demographic and health status characteristics. Discussion: The validity of self-reported eye disease and eye care utilization information has important research and health care policy implications; particularly if it is demonstrated to be biased. This will be the first population-based study to shed light on this important issue.