Position Summary:

Examine patient's eyes to diagnose vision problems and eye diseases, test patient's visual acuity, depth and color perception, and ability to focus and coordinate the eyes. Optometrists may refer patients for eyeglasses. Analyze test results and develop a treatment plan, administer drugs to patients to aid in the diagnosis of vision problems and prescribe drugs to treat some eye diseases.

This list of duties and responsibilities is illustrative only of the tasks performed by this position and is not all-inclusive.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Carry out clinical/patient care responsibilities in the eye clinic outpatient’s facilities of the NFH as assigned.
• Provide primary care, including history and physical examinations, screening and evaluation, diagnose and treatment, preventive and counseling services, and patient education regarding vision/eye health.
• Perform independent exams within the scope of practice.
• Diagnose conditions caused by systemic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure, referring patients to other health practitioners as needed regarding vision/eye health.
• Consults with and refers patients to Ophthalmologists or other health care practitioner if additional medical treatment is determined necessary.
• Provide preoperative and postoperative care to cataract patients, as well as to patients who have had laser vision correction or other eye surgery.
• Coordinates the operation of the Eye Clinic to integrate with the rest of the departments of the Navajo Health Foundation.
• Participate and attend in-service and continuing medical education.
• Meet and comply with Medical Staff Bylaws and Rules and Regulations.
• Maintain confidentiality at all times.
• Attend regular meetings of the Medical Staff.
• Character of Supervision; Will supervise the receptionist and Optometry Technician.
• Assures that the Eye Clinic is doing its part to fulfill the mission statement of the Navajo Health Foundation.

Knowledge, Abilities, Skills, and Certifications:

• Knowledge of community medical diagnostic and patient care services in area of medical expertise or optometry.
• Skill in physical examination, screening techniques, patient evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment regarding vision/eye health.
• Knowledge of relevant drugs and non-pharmaceutical patient care aids an ability to prescribe dosages and instruct patients in correct usage commonly used in optometry.
• Knowledge of health promotion and disease prevention.
• Ability to maintain quality, safety, and/or infection control standards.
• Ability to recognize limitations and when to refer to a professional.
• Ability to relate effectively and compassionately to patients.
• Ability to relate effectively to physician and non-physician colleagues, and to work as a member of the health care team.

Physical Demands:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly is required to sit; use hands to reach and grasp objects; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to walk. The employee occasionally is required to stand; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

Work Environment:

Work is generally performed in an office with moderate noise level. Extended hours and irregular shifts may be required.