Certified Ophthalmic Assistant / Certified Ophthalmic Technician

POSITION SUMMARY

This role supports Ophthalmologists and Optometrists by gathering medical histories, conducting preliminary eye function tests, explaining medications or procedures to patients, preparing patients for exams, and performing initial tests and measurements. The position also involves maintaining instruments, performing automated tests, setting up operating room instruments, assisting with minor surgeries, and completing necessary paperwork for clinical visits.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Review patient charts prior to the physician’s exam to anticipate needed procedures, supplies, or equipment.
• Conduct initial patient exams, including obtaining patient history, performing vision tests, intraocular pressure tests, and pupil evaluations.
• Perform both automated and manual testing, including auto and manual refractions, auto keratometry, corneal topography, pachymetry, tonometry, confrontation visual fields, Amsler Grid, Schirmer test, endothelial cell count, potential acuity meter, and brightness acuity tests.
• Conduct basic slit lamp examinations, ocular motility testing, administer ophthalmic drops and ointments, and apply ocular dressings and shields.
• Assist with minor outpatient surgical procedures.
• Transcribe exam results into the medical record as dictated by the physician during the exam.
• Build positive, effective relationships with patients and their families.
• Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of ophthalmic instruments.
• Handle administrative tasks, such as responding to inquiries in messaging and voicemail systems, assisting with appointments, and conducting telephone screenings. Answer STAT calls, take messages, and relay them to appropriate individuals. Under physician direction, contact pharmacies for prescription refills and record prescriptions in the patient's chart. File test results, forms, and letters into medical records.
• Stock and maintain workup and exam rooms, ensuring they are cleaned and fully stocked daily. Maintain appropriate inventory levels and assist with ordering medical and office supplies.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Two to three years of experience, unless certified by JCAHPO.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certified Ophthalmic Assistant/Technician through JCAHPO.
• Associate’s degree or equivalent from a two-year college or technical school.