Functional vision defines how a person performs in vision-related activities, more than how the eye functions (visual function). Functional vision is directly related to quality of life and is the basis for the ICO’s International Standards for Eye Care and Vision.

The ICO believes these principles should be emphasized in ophthalmic training, ophthalmic practice and in health care policy decisions:

• Ophthalmic care extends beyond the treatment of eye disease to promoting the well being of the patient
• Treatment decisions should consider patient needs and match the clinician’s expectations with those of the patient
• Studies of ophthalmic outcomes should include appropriate tools to evaluate visual functioning
• Ophthalmologists should follow a set of moral principles and standards to guide behavior within their professional domain.

The International Council of Ophthalmology adheres to a set of moral principles and standards to guide the behavior of ophthalmologists within their professional domain.