Ophthalmic Technician, Certified

Employer paid benefits - Medical, Dental, and Vision.  (qualifying dependents included)

Wage compensation - Min: $ 19.16 Max: $32.61

Definition of Position: 

The Ophthalmology Technician provides comprehensive clinical and administrative support to ophthalmologists and optometrists in delivering specialized eye care services. This role encompasses direct patient care activities including ophthalmic testing, visual assessments, and patient education; clinical documentation and electronic health record management specific to ophthalmology; coordination of referrals and prior authorizations for eye care services; and administrative functions essential to ophthalmology clinic operations. The Ophthalmology Technician works under the supervision and guidance of the Supervisor or Practice Manager, collaborating as part of an integrated care team to ensure efficient clinic workflow and optimal patient outcomes.

Essential Job Functions:

Patient Care & Clinical Support  

• Patient Intake & Preparation: Room patients and collect pertinent ophthalmic, medical, and family history including current medications, previous eye surgeries, and chief complaint for provider review
• Ophthalmic Testing & Assessments: Perform comprehensive eye testing including measurement of visual acuity, visual fields, extraocular motions, intraocular pressure by applanation tonometry, pinhole acuity, pupil measurements and testing, and refraction as necessary
• Examination & Procedure Support: Prepare exam rooms with necessary ophthalmic supplies and instruments; assist providers during examinations and procedures; ensure proper cleaning and sterilization of all ophthalmic equipment and diagnostic lenses
• Medication Administration: Instill ophthalmic medications and drops as directed by providers per established protocols
• Patient Education: Provide patient education and instruction regarding medications, tests, procedures, and surgical interventions as directed by healthcare providers

Assists in Surgical Services Ophthalmology procedures 

• Function as a scrub person during operative and other invasive procedures by:
  • assembling supplies and equipment required for the procedure;
  • preparing and organizing sterile supplies and instruments for the procedure;
  • performing accounting procedures in concert with the RN circulator;
  • assisting with placement of sterile drapes;
  • providing instruments and supplies to the surgical team during the procedure;
  • maintaining an organized sterile field;
  • ensuring sterility of the field and taking corrective actions as needed; and
  • Preparing sterile dressings.

• Clean and prepare surgical instruments for processing and transporting them to the decontamination areas.
• Assist with post-procedure cleaning of the operative or other invasive procedure room and preparation of room for subsequent patients.
• Participate in ongoing educational and competency verification activities applicable to scrub person activities.
• Maintain privacy and confidentiality of individuals and health information.

• Diagnostic Procedures: Independently perform intraocular pressure testing, visual field testing, pachymetry, keratometry, ocular biometry, ocular ultrasounds, fundus photography, visual acuity assessments, and other CLIA-waived ophthalmic tests as ordered.

Documentation & Records Management 

• Electronic Health Records: Accurately document visual assessments, intraocular pressure readings, patient histories, test results, and clinical findings in the electronic medical record system specific to ophthalmology care 
• Prescription Management: Process and input prescription refill requests for ophthalmic medications into electronic records and route to appropriate providers for approval 
• Coding & Documentation: Process all associated coding, documentation, charting, and referrals specific to ophthalmic procedures and diagnoses

Communication & Coordination 

• The employee supports the hospital mission, vision, values, policies, and procedures.
• Patient Communication: Respond to incoming calls and messages from patients regarding ophthalmic questions, appointment scheduling, and post-procedure inquiries 
• Professional Communication: Coordinate with other healthcare providers, insurance companies, and pharmacies regarding eye care services and insurance coverage issues 
• Prior Authorization: Collaborate with referral coordinator to identify authorization requirements and obtain prior approvals for ophthalmic procedures, surgeries, and specialized testing as directed

Supply & Inventory Management 

• Clinical Supplies: Maintain adequate inventory of ophthalmic supplies, diagnostic equipment, and specialized instruments in examination rooms and central supply areas 
• Equipment Maintenance: Perform routine maintenance and calibration of ophthalmic testing equipment; coordinate with biomedical services for equipment repairs and updates

Administrative Support 

• Front Office Support: Support reception duties including appointment scheduling, chart preparation, and phone coverage as needed
• Procedural Documentation: Maintain current ophthalmic procedure guidelines and protocols to assist other staff members
• General Support: The employee supports the hospital mission, vision, values, policies, and procedures. Participates in required education for DNV programs as applicable to position. Performs other related duties as assigned by Practice Manager, Supervisor or Director.

Schedule Flexibility 

• Variable Hours: Position requires flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as patient care needs and clinic operations dictate
• Multi-Specialty Support: May be assigned to work across various medical specialties within the Good Sheperd Medical Group

Qualifications:

Education

                Required: High school graduate or equivalent

        Preferred: Completion of Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) training program  

Licenses/ certifications/ registrations

Required: JCAHPO Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT), Current BLS certification, Current CPR certification.

Preferred: NA

Experience

Required: The ability to work with a culturally diverse population.

Preferred: Bilingual and/or English Spanish speaking. Minimum of one-year experience in office-based ophthalmology practice.

Other   

• Knowledge in computers, phones, and other office equipment.
• Knowledge in ophthalmic clinical equipment including but not limited to: tonometry equipment, visual field analyzers, autorefractors, lensometers, keratometers, optical coherence tomography (OCT), fundus cameras, slit lamps, and various specialized ophthalmic testing devices.
• Knowledge of basic electrical and mechanical principles related to ophthalmic equipment.

DEPENDENT ON JOB POSTING, CLINIC LOCATION:

Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required

Physical Requirements:

The physical and sensory functions described below are essential to the successful performance of this position. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions. The position requires sufficient auditory ability to detect and respond to various sounds, including patient alarms and verbal communication. Clear and effective communication is essential, as is the ability to interact with patients, families, and healthcare team members. Visual acuity is necessary for observing patient conditions, reading documentation and monitors, and distinguishing colors for clinical purposes, such as identifying medications or safety indicators. Tactile perception is also important for assessing physical characteristics such as temperature, size, shape, or texture during patient care. Motor coordination is required for reaching, grasping, handling, and performing fine motor tasks necessary for the use of medical equipment and procedures. The position also involves occasional stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling when assisting patients or accessing equipment. Walking and standing are typically continuous throughout the shift. The role requires the ability to lift to 50 pounds independently and involves frequent pushing, pulling, carrying, or repositioning of objects or patients weighing up to 25 pounds. There may also be occasional lifting or transferring of individuals weighing over 100 pounds, with the expectation that appropriate lifting techniques, mechanical aids, or team assistance will be used to ensure safety. May to sit for long periods of time.

Working Conditions:

This position is performed primarily in an indoor healthcare environment, such as a hospital, clinic, or long-term care facility. While the work setting is protected from outdoor weather conditions, it may be subject to variable indoor temperatures. The role involves frequent exposure to infectious and contagious diseases, hazardous materials, and medical equipment, with the expectation that all staff follow appropriate safety protocols and utilize personal protective equipment (PPE) as required.

The health care environment can be fast-paced and unpredictable, requiring the ability to respond quickly to changing circumstances, including high-pressure or emergency situations. The work setting also involves multiple simultaneous demands and varying levels of noise due to medical equipment, staff activity, and patient needs.