Certified Ophthalmic Technician- Storm Eye Institute

Medical University of South Carolina•Charleston, SC

24d

About The Position

Join the region’s leading ophthalmic care team at the MUSC Health Storm Eye Institute, where innovation meets compassion. We are currently hiring for multiple levels within our ophthalmic team, including Non-Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (NCOA), Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA), and Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT). Storm Eye Institute treats adult and pediatric patients across a wide spectrum of conditions—from routine eye exams to highly specialized surgical care. As part of our team, you'll work with a collaborative group of clinicians in a high-impact setting where your skills directly enhance patient outcomes.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent (GED).
Minimum of 1 year of ophthalmic experience and completion of a certified assistant program or equivalent.
Completion of COA II Annual Project and validation.
Certification as a COA through Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) required and must be maintained throughout employment.
Current American Heart Association (AHA) Basic Life Support (BLS) certification or American Red Cross BLS for Healthcare Providers certification is required.

Responsibilities

Serve as an educator and mentor for ophthalmic technicians and other clinical staff, providing guidance on ophthalmic procedures, equipment usage, patient care best practices, and troubleshooting challenges.
Educate patients about eye health, upcoming procedures, treatment plans, and post-procedural care instructions. Provide guidance to ensure patients are informed and comfortable.
Assist ophthalmologists and optometrists with patient exams, including taking patient histories, performing diagnostic tests, measuring visual acuity, and documenting results.
Help assist with various ophthalmic procedures, ensuring that all steps are properly followed and patients are well-cared for.
Ensure that ophthalmic equipment is well-maintained, calibrated, and functioning correctly. Troubleshoot any equipment issues and work with other departments for repairs or replacements when needed.
Manage and respond to In Basket messages in the electronic health record (EHR) system. Ensure timely follow-up with patients, staff, and physicians regarding test results, appointments, and treatment plans.
Make pre-procedure phone calls to patients, providing essential instructions, confirming appointments, and addressing any patient concerns or questions prior to scheduled procedures.
Assist with obtaining prior authorizations for procedures, diagnostic tests, and treatments as required by insurance companies. Ensure all necessary documentation is completed and submitted in a timely manner.
Support the daily flow of the ophthalmology clinic, assisting with scheduling, patient check-in, and any administrative tasks as needed.
Ensure all clinical and operational tasks adhere to safety standards, infection control protocols, and regulatory requirements.