Administrative Skills, Anatomy, Calibration, Clinical Data Collection, Clinical Support, Communication Skills, Detail Oriented, Documentation, Electronic Medical Records, Healthcare, High School Diploma, Medical Assistance, Medical Record System, Medical Records, Medical Terminology, Medical Treatment, Medical Waste, Medical Writing, Medications, Medicine, Ophthalmology, Organizational Skills, Patient Care, Photography, Physical Demands, Regulations, Sterilization, Test Plan/Schedule, Testing, Topography
Job Summary
The Ophthalmic Technician assists physicians in delivering high-quality eye care by performing diagnostic tests, documenting patient information, and supporting clinical procedures. This role involves direct patient interaction, accurate data collection, and coordination to ensure smooth clinic workflow. The technician is responsible for performing vision assessments, ocular imaging, tonometry, refractions, and assisting with minor procedures, while maintaining a clean, safe, and well-organized clinical environment. This position requires strong attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to patient care.
Key Responsibilities
The Ophthalmic Technician's primary responsibility is to support physicians in delivering high-quality patient care. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to
Patient Interaction & Communication
- Inform patients about the purpose of all tests and procedures and explain what to expect.
- Obtain comprehensive patient history including: chief complaint, history of present illness, ocular and general medical history, family history, allergies, and medications.
- Escort patients from the waiting room, initiate testing, and communicate next steps while maintaining comfort and professionalism.
Clinical Testing & Documentation
- Perform accurate and consistent documentation within paper and/or electronic medical record systems.
- Perform and assist with diagnostics including: OCT, IOL Master, Topography/Topographer, Fundus photography (Optos), Humphrey Visual Field (HVF/HFA), Pachymetry, Refractions, Goldmann tonometry and/or iCare, Neutralizing glasses prescriptions
- Scribe and accurately document clinical examinations.
- Maintain smooth clinic flow by adjusting testing sequence as needed.
- Determine appropriate patient order and flow based on current clinic progression.
Administrative & Clinical Support
- Process medication refill requests and prior authorizations.
- Assist physicians during minor procedures as needed.
- Sterilize instruments and maintain required standards.
- Handle biohazard and sharps disposal safely and per regulatory guidelines.
- Clean, stock, open, and close exam and testing rooms.
- Communicate effectively with coworkers to ensure efficient workflow.
- Perform equipment calibration, quality checks, and arrange service when needed.
- Support and assist other staff members as necessary.
Skills & Qualifications
Required:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Excellent communication skills and strong patient-first mindset
- Familiarity with ophthalmic medical terminology and anatomy
- An interest in a career in healthcare & providing excellent care to patients
- Ability to commute to all office locations - Albany, Clifton Park & Troy
Preferred:
- 0–2 years of ophthalmology experience
- Knowledge of EMR systems, Modernizing Medicine (ModMed) a plus
- Interest in pursuing a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) or Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) designation
Physical Requirements:
This is an active, fast-paced position that requires being on your feet for most of the day. Responsibilities include frequent standing, bending, and leaning, as well as the ability to lift up to 10 pounds as needed.
P
Perlmutter Eye Center & Perlmutter Dermatology