Medical Assistant (Ophthalmic Technician) - Training Provided

About the role

An Ophthalmic Technician is a valuable asset to an Ophthalmologist as they assist in providing excellent patient care to the patients during their visit. This employee is able to handle a wide range of duties while using equipment to perform the initial testing needed to prepare a patient for an exam with an Ophthalmologist.

Responsibilities

• Provide exceptional customer service during every patient encounter (in person or via phone)
• Display a professional attitude, greet patients promptly with a smile, and thank them when they leave
• Anticipate Physician needs to facilitate the flow of the clinic
• Practice urgency at all times with patient's time, as well as doctor's time and schedule
• Comply with all company policies and procedures, including HIPAA
• Verify patient's information by interviewing patient
• Record patient's medical history and current medications and confirm purpose of visit
• Record all data in the patient's Electronic Medical Record (EMR)
• Check condition of patient's eyes by observing pupils, muscles, visual acuity, and extraocular movements
• Required skills include: dilation, refraction, pressures, and performing a variety of diagnostic tests including visual fields, OCT, GDX, IOL master, auto refractor and topography
• Demonstrates working knowledge of eye anatomy, diseases, symptoms and ocular medications
• Accurately and thoroughly document medical visits and procedures as they are being performed by the Physician
• Prepare patients for treatments and minor procedures; measure and record vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, and respiration rate) as required
• Open and close exam rooms as needed
• Keep examination, treatment, laser and any other assigned rooms cleaned and stocked with supplies, and keep drug count up to date
• General office duties and cleaning to be assigned by manager

Qualifications

• Provides excellent patient care and is energetic and empathetic with patients
• Must comply with HIPAA confidentiality standards when communicating patient information
• Communication skills and the ability to coordinate and cooperate with all levels of employees in a courteous, professional manner at all times
• Organizational skills with focus on tracking patient care and improving patient flow
• Desire to gain industry knowledge and training
• Demonstrates initiative in accomplishing practice goals
• Ability to grow, adapt, and accept change
• Consistently creates a positive work environment by being team-oriented and patient-focused
• Commitment to work over 40 hours to meet the needs of the business
• Ability to work weekends when applicable
• Reliable transportation that would allow employee to go to multiple work locations with minimal notice

Education and experience

• Minimum Required: High school diploma or general education degree (GED) required
• Minimum Required: One year of related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience

Licenses and credentials

• Current Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) or Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) certification is preferred, but not required

Systems and technology

• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook
• Experience using Electronic Medical Records (EMR) systems
• Computer proficiency and ability to quickly learn new applications

Physical requirements

• Frequent walking (75%), sitting (50%), and standing (50%), with regular bending, stooping, and reaching (25–50%)
• Must be able to lift, carry, push, and pull items up to 25 lbs
• Strong fine motor skills and full use of hands are essential, with constant grasping, writing/typing, and use of technology
• Visual and auditory acuity—including color, depth, peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus—is required 100% of the time
• Occasional driving or climbing may also be necessary