What is the main purpose of performing ancillary testing in ophthalmology?

The main purpose of performing ancillary testing in ophthalmology is to gather diagnostic data. Ancillary tests are utilized to support the clinician's evaluation by providing additional information that may not be available through a standard eye examination. These tests can assess various aspects of eye health, such as visual acuity, intraocular pressure, retinal imaging, or visual fields. The data obtained from these tests aids in identifying specific conditions, monitoring disease progression, and determining the appropriate treatment plan for the patient.

In contrast, while providing emotional support and discussing insurance coverage can be important aspects of patient care, these activities do not constitute the primary purpose of ancillary testing. Similarly, scheduling surgical procedures is a function that occurs after a diagnosis has been made, rather than a role of the testing itself. Therefore, gathering diagnostic data stands as the cornerstone of what ancillary tests are designed to achieve in the context of ophthalmic practice.