Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) or Ophthalmic Healthcare Specialist (Entry-Level)

Hennepin Healthcare•Minneapolis, MN

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Under close direction of a certified technician, performs work of moderate difficulty in performing a wide range of diagnostic tests for visual acuity and for use by providers in the diagnosis and care of diseases of the eyes.

Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent
Two years’ experience in customer service involving complex analytical problem-solving skills
One year of experience in a related field
Completion of an ophthalmic assistant program accredited by The Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO)
Current certification as a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) by The Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO) or eligible for certification.
Newly hired or promoted Ophthalmic Assistants who are not certified must begin the process to take the certification exam within the first six months of employment as an Ophthalmic Assistant, and must pass both parts of the exam (written and skill evaluation) within one (1) year of hire or promotion.

Nice To Haves

Ability to perform specialized clinical tasks and procedures in alignment with HHS standards
Knowledge of medical terminology
Ability to effectively interview patients and collect information required to obtain medical history and to accurately register and/or schedule patients
Ability to work cohesively and respectfully with a diverse work force and patient population
Ability to prioritize, organize, and communicate with multidisciplinary staff
Knowledge/ Skills/ Abilities: Customer service skills
Problem solving skills

Responsibilities

Obtains and documents medical and ophthalmic history of patients
Performs and documents a wide range of diagnostic tests and studies such as visual acuity, refraction, central field, and peripheral field testing
Performs tests for color vision, fusion, biometric ruling, retinal correspondence, intra-ocular pressure, corneal sensitivity, pupillary reactions, and diagnosing glaucoma
Performs slit lamp photography, contact lens fittings, and diagnostic ultrasound
May administer ophthalmic medications
Operates and maintains appropriate medical or diagnostic equipment
Performs related work as required, but only after appropriate training
May set up and assist in office surgery
May assist with clinical research studies
Orients medical residents in basic ophthalmic examination techniques