Ophthalmic Assistant

Mass General Brigham•Boston, MA

2d•$18 - $25•Onsite

About The Position

Under the supervision of a licensed clinician, the Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) supports patient-centered care in outpatient ophthalmology clinics and procedural settings. The role combines hands-on clinical care, diagnostic testing, and patient interaction to support ophthalmologists and the broader care team in evaluating and treating eye conditions. The position is onsite at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, with a 40-hour scheduled workweek and a day shift.

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 and 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, including the ability to prioritize responsibilities 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 the 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 established 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, maintaining a safe and efficient clinical environment.
Clean, calibrate, and maintain ophthalmic equipment in accordance with manufacturer guidelines and infection prevention standards.
Monitor and organize medical supplies and ophthalmic equipment for daily clinical operations.
Handle, label, store, and transport specimens, instruments, and medications in accordance with safety protocols and regulatory requirements.
Support clinic operations through patient call triage, electronic in-basket management, and other assigned administrative 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 documentation of patient care, test results, and other clinical information in the electronic medical record.
Follow hospital policies, clinical protocols, and applicable regulatory and accreditation standards to maintain patient safety and quality of care.