Ophthalmic Assistant

Job Summary

The Ophthalmic Assistant supports ophthalmologists by performing clinical, technical, and administrative tasks associated with patient eye care. The role involves collecting patient histories, conducting diagnostic tests, preparing patients for examinations, and assisting with procedures.

Progression from Level 1 to Level 3 reflects increasing skill, knowledge, and independence in technical and diagnostic responsibilities. All levels are signed off by the training coordinator.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Level 1 Duties

Primary Focus: Foundational patient care and basic technical support.

Responsibilities:

• Greet and prepare patients for examination.
• Obtain and record accurate medical and ocular histories.
• Measure visual acuity, pupil responses, and intraocular pressure (tonometry).
• Administer eye drops and ointments under supervision.
• Clean and maintain ophthalmic instruments and equipment.
• Assist the ophthalmologist during minor procedures as directed.
• Ensure patient comfort, safety, and confidentiality.
• Document findings accurately in the electronic medical record (EMR).
• Train new staff in basic technical procedures

Skills/Qualifications:

• Basic understanding of eye anatomy and terminology.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to follow protocols and instructions.

Level 2 Duties

Primary Focus: Performing and interpreting advanced diagnostic tests.

Responsibilities:

• Perform all Level 1 duties.
• Operate and maintain diagnostic equipment such as:
• Optical coherence tomography (OCT)
• Visual field
• Fundus and anterior segment cameras
• Corneal topographers and autorefraction units
• Capture and process high-quality diagnostic images.
• Prepare test results for physician review and assist in preliminary analysis.
• Calibrate, clean, and troubleshoot diagnostic devices.
• Train new staff in basic technical procedures.

Skills/Qualifications:

• Proficient use of ophthalmic diagnostic instruments.
• Ability to recognize abnormal test results and alert the physician.
• Intermediate computer and EMR skills.

Level 3 Duties

Primary Focus: Advanced diagnostics, procedure assistance, and medical scribing.

Responsibilities:

• Perform all Level 1 and 2 duties.
• Serve as clinical scribe during patient exams
• Accurately document physician findings, diagnoses, and treatment plans in real-time.
• Assist in minor surgical or laser procedures (e.g., YAG, injections).
• Coordinate diagnostic testing workflow and quality control.
• Educate patients on post-procedure care, medications, and follow-up instructions.
• Support physician research or data collection, as needed.
• Answer patient questions and email inquiries.
• Mentor and assist in training junior technicians.
• Train new staff in scribing.

Skills/Qualifications:

• High-level proficiency in diagnostic imaging and EMR documentation.
• Advanced understanding of ophthalmic terminology, anatomy, and pathology.
• Strong multitasking and communication abilities.
• Demonstrated teamwork and mentoring capability.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand or sit for extended periods.
• Work in various clinical settings, interacting with patients, families, and medical staff.
• Occasional lifting of equipment or supplies up to 20 lbs.

Education & Experience

• Level 1: High school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training provided.
• Level 2: Minimum 1–2 years ophthalmic experience or equivalent certification.
• Level 3: 3 years ophthalmic experience; COA/COT certification preferred.

Certification (Preferred but not Required)

• JCAHPO Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA)
• Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) or higher

Employee Benefits

• 6 Paid Holidays
• Sick and Vacation time
• Health Insurance
• Basic Life when enrolled
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• We offer AFLAC
• FSA (Cafeteria plan)
• 401K
• Uniform Allowance

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $18.00 - $26.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Uniform allowance
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $18 - $26