Certified Ophthalmic Surgical Assistant

Job Summary

Under the supervision of a licensed clinician, the Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) provides clinical and administrative support to ensure high-quality patient care in outpatient ophthalmology clinic and procedural areas in our oculoplastics department .

Does this position require Patient Care?
Yes

Essential Functions

• Perform pre-operative testing and prepare the patient for surgery, including patient positioning.
• Perform pre- and post-operative patient education.
• Properly identify and administer eye drops as directed by the surgeon.
• Collaborate with the surgical team to implement the treatment plan by:
• Preparing the operating room.
• Calibrating equipment to ensure it is functional and safe to use.
• Gathering and preparing supplies, instruments, and equipment.
• Preparing the sterile field using aseptic technique in accordance with hospital infection control guidelines

During surgical procedures:

• Anticipate and respond to the surgeon's needs.
• Operate necessary equipment.
• Provide required instruments and supplies from the sterile field.
• Properly handle and sterilize instruments in compliance with hospital protocols and infection control standards.
• Recognize, report, and intervene in situations that may compromise patient safety.
• Maintain patient confidentiality, privacy, and rights.

Facilitate efficient case turnover by:

• Prioritizing tasks.
• Completing assigned responsibilities promptly.
• Escalating issues immediately when appropriate.
• Maintaining effective communication with the care team, administrative staff, and patients.

Perform administrative duties, including:

• Inventory management.
• Triaging patient calls.
• Preparing surgical charts under the direction of the surgeon.
• In-basket management, as assigned.

Perform ophthalmic tests and diagnostic imaging consistent with JCAHPO certification (COA, COT, or COMT) when assigned to an outpatient eye clinic.

Provide cross-coverage to other ophthalmology services and locations as needed.

Comply with all hospital policies, federal, state, and local regulations, and JCAHO standards.Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience in lieu of a degree accepted? No

Licenses & Certifications

• Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) through the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) required.

Experience

• At least 6 months of experience in a supervised ophthalmology clinic or completion of the International Council of Accreditation (ICA) Assistant-level training program required.

Salary

• Commensurate with experience

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Working knowledge of ophthalmic terminology, eye anatomy and physiology, common ocular conditions, ophthalmic procedures, and medications.
• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills with the ability to provide compassionate, patient-centered care.
• Ability to deliver care that meets the unique needs of patients across different ages and levels of physical and cognitive ability.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and adapt in a fast-paced clinical environment.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary care team.
• Sound judgment, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills within the scope of the role.
• Proficiency with computers, electronic health records, and Microsoft Office applications

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Bereavement leave
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• On-the-job training
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person