Ophthalmic Assistant

Mass General Brigham•Boston, MA

7d•Onsite

About The Position

Under the supervision of a licensed clinician, the Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) supports high-quality, patient-centered care in outpatient ophthalmology clinics and procedural settings. The role combines hands-on clinical care, diagnostic testing, and patient interaction to assist ophthalmologists and the broader care team in evaluating and treating eye conditions. The position performs ophthalmic testing and diagnostic imaging, gathers and documents patient information, administers ophthalmic medications as directed, assists with office-based procedures, and prepares patients and clinical areas for care. It also includes equipment and supply upkeep, specimen and medication handling, clinic administrative support, and accurate electronic medical record documentation. The assistant may provide clinical and operational support across ophthalmology clinics and locations as needed, while following hospital policies, protocols, and applicable regulatory and accreditation standards. This is an onsite, regular position at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, 800 Huntington Avenue, with 40 scheduled weekly hours on the day shift. The stated pay range is $17.71–$24.94 per hour.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent; experience cannot substitute for the required education.
Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) credential through the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO).
0–1 year of experience in a supervised ophthalmology clinic, or completion of an International Council of Accreditation (ICA) Assistant-level training program.
Knowledge of ophthalmic terminology, ocular anatomy and physiology, common eye conditions, ophthalmic procedures, and medications.
Strong interpersonal and customer service skills, with a commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care.
Ability to support patients across a range of ages and physical and cognitive abilities.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize in a fast-paced clinical setting.
Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary care team.
Sound judgment, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills within the scope of the role.
Proficiency with computers, electronic health records, and Microsoft Office applications.

Responsibilities

Perform ophthalmic testing, vision assessments, and diagnostic imaging to support evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of eye conditions.
Obtain and document patient histories, visual acuities, vital signs, and other relevant clinical measurements.
Administer ophthalmic medications and diagnostic eye drops as directed and in accordance with clinical protocols.
Assist ophthalmologists with office-based procedures, including laser treatments, injections, cryotherapy, and oculoplastic procedures.
Prepare patients, examination rooms, and procedural areas for examinations and treatments.
Clean, calibrate, and maintain ophthalmic equipment according to manufacturer guidelines and infection prevention standards.
Monitor and organize medical supplies and ophthalmic equipment for daily clinic operations.
Handle, label, store, and transport specimens, instruments, and medications according to safety protocols and regulatory requirements.
Support clinic operations through patient call triage, electronic in-basket management, and other assigned duties.
Provide clinical and operational support across ophthalmology clinics and locations as needed.
Communicate compassionately and effectively with patients, families, clinicians, and other care team members.
Maintain accurate and timely electronic medical record documentation of patient care, test results, and other clinical information.
Follow hospital policies, clinical protocols, and applicable regulatory and accreditation standards to maintain patient safety and quality of care.