Optometric Medical Assistant

Primary Purpose

Performs various optometric pre-testing procedures, including reviewing patient's previous records, obtains and documents patient medical/ocular history, review of systems, chief complaint, preliminary testing, and select supervised testing.

Minimum Specifications

Education

• Must have completed training through an accredited Medical Assistant training program

Experience

• Must have six months of relevant Optometry or Ophthalmology experience.

Equivalent Education and/or Experience

Certification/Registration/Licensure

• Must have current healthcare provider BLS for Healthcare Providers certification from one of the following:

• American Heart Association

• American Red Cross

• Military Training Network

Required Tests for Placement

Skills or Special Abilities

• Must be able to communicate effectively with patients, hospital staff, and the general public.
• Must be able to document patient history in EMR.
• Must be able to demonstrate a basic understanding of optometry, ocular anatomy, and conditions of eye.
• Must be able to demonstrate a working knowledge of conducting ocular tests.
• Must be able to demonstrate basic patient skills in the use of supplies and assigned equipment.

Responsibilities

• Makes initial contact with patients, providing ocular evaluations (i.e., autorefraction, lensometry, IOP check with non-contact tonometer or tonopen, instilling drops such as those required for dilation) to assist the physician in patient assessment.
• Tests patients using visual field analysis to assist in determining the progression of glaucoma and other disease processes, non-invasive imaging technology i/e retinal imaging, Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and other testing modalities to assist in determining the extent of progression of disease processes when needed.
• Instructs patients on the care and handling (insertion and removal) of contact lenses, to ensure proper patient care and safety.
• Cleans and stocks lanes (inventory supplies) and reports depleted supplies to ensure sufficient supplies and materials are available to avoid shortages.
• Attends in-services and continuing education clinics to ensure on-going certification. Integrates knowledge gained into current work practices.
• Maintains a positive working relationship with patients, medical staff, clinic staff, and management to facilitate cooperative and coordinated interaction.

Job Accountabilities

• Identifies ways to improve work processes and improve customer satisfaction. Makes recommendations to supervisor, implements, and monitors results as appropriate in support of the overall goals of the department and Parkland.
• Stays abreast of the latest developments, advancements, and trends in the field by attending seminars/workshops, reading professional journals, actively participating in professional organizations, and/or maintaining certification or licensure. Integrates knowledge gained into current work practices.
• Maintains knowledge of applicable rules, regulations, policies, laws and guidelines that impact the area. Develops effective internal controls designed to promote adherence with applicable laws, accreditation agency requirements, and federal, state, and private health plans. Seeks advice and guidance as needed to ensure proper understanding.