Job Description
** GENERAL SUMMARY:**
Eye Care Assistants are essential members of the ophthalmology team, performing a dynamic mix of administrative and clinical duties that directly impact patient care and outcomes. Working collaboratively under the direction of a licensed ophthalmologist, you'll combine technical expertise with compassionate patient interaction. You'll take on diverse responsibilities—from conducting diagnostic testing and preparing patients for examination to assisting in surgical procedures—all while maintaining the highest standards of patient care and safety. As an ophthalmic allied health professional, you'll develop specialized skills in eye care while supporting the physician's clinical decision-making and patient education efforts.
** PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES**
- Patient Assessment & History Taking: Build rapport with patients by obtaining comprehensive medical and ocular histories, including chief complaints, medications, allergies, and relevant health information. Accurately document findings using approved medical abbreviations and protocols and support the physician through medical scribing when needed.
- Visual Acuity & Refraction Testing: Conduct thorough visual acuity assessments (near and far, with and without correction), including specialized tests such as pinhole acuity, glare testing, and potential acuity measurements. Perform refractometry and enter spectacle data to support precise clinical evaluations.
- Advanced Diagnostic Testing: Execute a range of specialized diagnostic procedures including lensometry, visual field testing (confrontation and automated), tonometry using multiple techniques, color vision assessment, pupil evaluation, and anterior chamber depth estimation. Utilize automated refractors and keratometers to gather critical diagnostic data.
- Intraocular Pressure Measurement: Demonstrate expert aseptic technique while measuring intraocular pressure using non-contact, digital, and Goldmann applanation tonometers. Maintain equipment calibration and accuracy to ensure reliable clinical data.
- Surgical Support & Instrument Management: Prepare and assist with non-refractive laser procedures (argon, YAG) and minor surgical interventions. Set up sterile instrument trays, disinfect lenses and surgical instruments to OSHA standards, and maintain a well-organized surgical environment that supports optimal patient outcomes.
- Contact Lens Services: Provide expert guidance on contact lens selection, insertion, removal, and care. Take detailed contact lens histories, perform visual acuity assessments with lenses, conduct trial fittings, manage inventory, and coordinate orders based on physician specifications.
- Patient Care & Education: Apply and remove eye dressings and shields, instill medications as directed, and recognize potential adverse reactions. Educate patients on diagnostic procedures and post-care instructions, empowering them to actively participate in their eye health journey.
- Equipment Excellence & Maintenance: Care for, maintain, and troubleshoot exam room equipment to ensure optimal functionality. Maintain detailed records and repair logs, manage supply inventory, and protect instruments—contributing to a seamless clinical environment.
- Clinical Communication & Coordination: Utilize HFHS systems (phone, computer, email, fax) to coordinate patient flow, manage appointments, and prepare charts according to physician protocol. Respond promptly to communications and escalate care management issues to ensure continuity of care.
- Additional Clinical Duties: Perform other related clinical and administrative duties as assigned, contributing to the overall success of the ophthalmology practice.