Orthoptist (20894)

Summary

Administers orthoptic tests, performs therapeutic orthoptic procedures, and provides instruction to patients with correctable vision focusing defects, under the medical direction of a licensed ophthalmologist. Diagnose and evaluate visual system disorders, particularly those related to binocular vision, eye movements, and amblyopia. Working within a multidisciplinary eye care team, assess and treat patients with disorders such as strabismus (misalignment of the eyes), double vision, and other visual impairments affecting both children and adults.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position does not have supervisory responsibility but will assist with orientation and training of other practice employees.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform thorough orthoptic evaluations by assessing ocular alignment, eye movement, and visual acuity in patients of all age groups. Use specialized equipment and techniques to diagnose conditions such as strabismus, amblyopia, nystagmus, and various disorders affecting binocular vision.
• Assess and diagnose visual disorders related to eye movement and binocular function.
• Develop individualized, evidence-based treatment plans for patients. Monitor progress and modify treatment as necessary to achieve optimal outcomes.
• Manage therapies for amblyopia, strabismus, and convergence/divergence insufficiencies.
• Supervise occlusion therapy and monitor patient compliance and progress.
• Recommend and fit prisms or other visual aids as needed.
• Provide clear, empathetic education and instruction to patients and their families regarding visual disorders, treatment plans, and the importance of adherence to therapy. Offer guidance on preventive measures and lifestyle adaptations.
• Work closely with ophthalmologists, optometrists, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate patient care, co-manage complex cases, and contribute to the overall management of visual system disorders.
• Prepare patients for ophthalmological surgery by conducting pre-operative assessments.
• Administer and interpret a wide range of diagnostic tests, such as Hess and Lancaster screen tests, and visual field assessments, to accurately diagnose and monitor ocular motility and sensory anomalies.
• Maintain meticulous and up-to-date records of patient assessments, diagnoses, treatment plans, and follow-up outcomes in accordance with regulatory and organizational protocols.
• Contribute to clinical audits, departmental meetings, and the development of protocols and best practices.
• Adhere to the highest standards of ethical and professional conduct, respecting patient confidentiality and ensuring informed consent is obtained for all assessments and interventions.
• Other duties as assigned.

Secondary Functions

• Other duties which may be necessary or desirable to serve the patient and support the success of the department or the company overall.

Education and/or Experience; Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations (Minimum Requirements)

• Bachelor’s Degree in a health, science, or other related field.
• Diploma from an accredited orthoptic training program.
• Current Orthoptist certification or are eligible for certification with demonstration of passing scores on board examinations, with ACCO membership preferred.
• At least 24 months of orthoptic training in an AOC accredited program.
• An equivalent combination of education, experience and training that would provide the knowledge, skills and abilities required for the successful performance of the essential job duties.

Necessary Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of retinoscopy, Lensometry, sensorimotor exams, prism application, lecturing, and research papers and articles.
• Proven ocular motility diagnosis and co-management skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to communicate effectively and compassionately with patients, families, and colleagues.
• Adept at using specialized diagnostic equipment and comfortable with the technology relevant to vision assessment.
• Excellent organizational abilities, attention to detail, and commitment to maintaining accurate clinical records.
• Ability to work autonomously as well as collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Commitment to ongoing learning and development in the field of orthoptics and vision care.

Physical Demands / Work Environment

• Majority of work is performed in a general office environment. Exposure to moderate levels of noise in a well-lit, well-ventilated and moderately paced environment.
• This position requires manual/finger dexterity as necessary to perform daily job duties.
• Occasionally required to stand and/or walk for extended periods of time.
• Occasionally required to sit for extended periods of time.
• Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms; lift, push, pull and/or carry objects up to 20 pounds.

Reasonable Accommodations

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EHN believes that each employee makes a significant contribution to our overall success.  That contribution should not be limited by assigned responsibilities. This job description is designed to outline primary functions, qualifications and job scope, but is not intended to limit the employee or EHN to only those job functions identified. EHN expects each employee to offer his or her services wherever and whenever necessary to ensure superior customer service, quality patient care, and the success of our business.