Ophthalmic Assistant - Ophthalmology

UTHealth Houston•Houston, TX

About The Position

The Ophthalmic Assistant supports physicians and the clinical team in the UTHealth Department of Ophthalmology by providing patient care assistance and preparing patients for eye exams and diagnostic procedures under direct supervision. The role includes gathering patient information, assisting with routine ophthalmic tests and care coordination, responding to patient inquiries within the employee’s scope of knowledge, and maintaining exam rooms and equipment. The position may also assist with in-office surgical procedures under direct supervision. Employees must permanently reside and work in Texas. This is a security-sensitive position.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent; required education may be substituted with equivalent years of experience beyond the minimum experience requirement.
Two years of work experience in an ophthalmology office.
Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) credential from IJCAHPO within 12 months of employment.
Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association.
Basic clinical and administrative competency.
Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
Commitment to delivering outstanding patient care.
Permanently reside and work in Texas.
Meet the security-sensitive position requirements described in the posting.

Nice To Haves

Graduate of an education program approved by the credentialing body for the required credential(s) in an Ophthalmic Assistant Program.

Responsibilities

Prepare patients for physician examinations by obtaining the chief complaint, basic medical and surgical history, family history, medication list, and allergies.
Assist with routine, basic ophthalmic tests as directed by the physician, such as visual acuity testing.
Assist with coordination of diagnostic tests, minor in-office procedures, and patient follow-up as directed.
Support prescription refill processes and prior authorization requests under physician supervision.
Answer patient phone calls and questions within the scope of knowledge and escalate as needed.
Set up and maintain clean, well-stocked exam rooms and ensure equipment and instruments are in working order.
May assist with in-office surgical procedures under direct supervision.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

100% paid medical premiums for full-time employees.
Generous time off, including holidays, a preventative leave day, vacation, and sick time, totaling around 37–38 days per year.
Increasing vacation accrual with longer service.
Monthly longevity pay after two years of service.
Retirement/pension plan.
Free financial and legal counseling.
Free mental health counseling services.
Gym membership discounts and access to wellness programs.
Employee discounts, including entertainment, car rentals, and cell phones.
Resources for child and elder care.