Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA)

Overview

As a patient-focused organization, University of Utah Health exists to enhance the health and well-being of people through patient care, research and education. Success in this mission requires a culture of collaboration, excellence, leadership, and respect. University of Utah Health seeks staff that are committed to the values of compassion, collaboration, innovation, responsibility, integrity, quality and trust that are integral to our mission. EO/AA

This position performs preliminary examinations and evaluations of patients with ocular complaints, diseases, or disorders by initiating and executing technical tests utilized exclusively in ophthalmology. The incumbent provides information to and consults with ophthalmologists who facilitate the diagnosis and eventual treatment of patients. This position may be required to access and administer medications within their scope of practice and according to State Law.

Corporate Overview: The University of Utah is a Level 1 Trauma Center and is nationally ranked and recognized for our academic research, quality standards and overall patient experience. Our five hospitals and eleven clinics provide excellence in our comprehensive services, medical advancement, and overall patient outcomes.

Responsibilities

Essential Functions

• Performs successfully all of the essential functions of job code 7130, Ophthalmic Medical Specialist.
• Performs intermediate diagnostic tests such as intermediate manifest refractometry (fogging, balancing, near point refractometry, and trial framing), pachymetry, tear break up time test, intermediate lens skills including measuring base curve, vertex distance, and prism in glasses including progressive lenses.
• Performs intermediate automated visual fields for surgical assessment, including taped and untaped fields.
• Assists with other ophthalmic procedures including obtaining the consent of the patient and assisting with laser procedures, intraocular injections, and other minor office procedures.
• Makes decisions regarding which screening procedures and specialized tests should be applied to each patient based on symptoms as reported by the patient.
• Interprets the reliability and validity of test results and seeks additional guidance to ascertain the next appropriate treatment procedure.
• May perform IOL Master Scans and Contact A-scan.
• May assist in ophthalmic imaging, as needed, including anterior segment photography, external photography, fundus photography, HRT, GDX and OCT.
• May assist in patient flow, including scribing.
• May be responsible for floating between several different locations.

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities

• Ability to perform the essential functions of the job outlined above.
• Demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills.
• Ability to provide care appropriate to the population served.
• Ability to interpret the reliability and validity of test results.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the principles of life span growth and development.
• Ability to assess data regarding the patient''s status and provide care as described in the department''s policies and procedures manual.

Qualifications

Licenses Required

• Current RQI Healthcare Provider eCredential through the University of Utah Health RQI system. The eCredential is to be obtained within 30 days of hire.
• JCAHPO certification as an Ophthalmic Assistant (COA).
• Additional license requirements as determined by the hiring department.

Qualifications (Preferred)

Working Conditions and Physical Demands

Employee must be able to meet the following requirements with or without an accommodation.

• This position involves intermediate working conditions in a healthcare setting that may exert up to 50 pounds and may consistently require lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, or otherwise moving patients or objects, such as medical equipment, while providing patient care. Workers in this position may be exposed to infectious diseases and may be required to function around prisoners or behavioral health patients.

Physical Requirements

Non Indicated