Ophthalmic Medical Technician or Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (Medical Assistant for Eye Care)

University of Utah Health•Salt Lake City, UT

2d•Onsite

About The Position

University of Utah Hospitals and Clinics is accepting resumes for current and future Ophthalmic Medical Technician (OMT) and Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) opportunities, roles described as medical assistants for eye care. Positions are available at multiple Moran Eye Care locations, including the Moran Eye Center in Salt Lake City, Midvalley in Murray, Farmington, Parkway in Orem, Redstone in Park City, Redwood in Salt Lake City, South Jordan, Stansbury Park, Westridge in West Valley, and the Moran location at Primary Children's. Applicants can indicate their preferred location or locations and whether they seek full-time or part-time hours. The position performs preliminary examinations and evaluations of patients with ocular complaints, diseases, or disorders by initiating and performing ophthalmic technical tests. The technician provides information to and consults with ophthalmologists to support diagnosis and treatment. The role may include accessing and administering medications within the employee's scope of practice and according to state law. Those not already COA certified may start as an OMT and work with their team toward COA certification within 6–12 months; the pace varies by position. University of Utah Health describes its mission as enhancing health and well-being through patient care, research, and education, and emphasizes compassion, collaboration, innovation, responsibility, integrity, quality, and trust.

Requirements

Ability to perform the essential functions of the job.
Demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills.
Ability to provide care appropriate to the population served.
Demonstrated knowledge of the principles of life span growth and development.
Ability to assess data regarding patient status and provide care as described in the department's policies and procedures manual.
For OMT: Current RQI Healthcare Provider eCredential through the University of Utah Health RQI system; it must be obtained within 30 days of hire.
For COA: Current JCAHPO certification as an Ophthalmic Assistant (COA).
For COA: Current RQI Healthcare Provider eCredential through the University of Utah Health RQI system; it must be obtained within 30 days of hire.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience working in an allied health profession position in ophthalmology.
Desire to work toward and obtain JCAHPO certification as a Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA).

Responsibilities

Obtain each patient's medical history for use by the ophthalmologist in formulating a potential diagnosis.
Perform ophthalmic diagnostic tests, including visual acuity, pupil assessment, basic manual lensometry, stereo testing, color vision testing, visual field testing, EOMs, angle assessment, automated perimetry, Goldmann Applanation and Tonopen tonometry, BAT, PAM, manual keratometry, Schirmer tear testing, Atlas topography, Pentacam, Flicker Fusion, and Color Vision D15.
Administer topical ophthalmic medication.
Instruct patients about testing procedures.
Educate patients about ophthalmic conditions and treatment plans, including teaching contact lens insertion, removal, and care.
Report equipment malfunctions and safety hazards and maintain adequate inventory of consumables and supplies for the designated work area.
Select screening procedures and specialized tests based on patients' reported symptoms.
Interpret the reliability and validity of test results and seek guidance to determine appropriate next steps in treatment.
May perform basic manifest refractometry.
May function as a scribe for the ophthalmologist.
May assist with training other ophthalmic personnel, as assigned.
May assist with laser and ophthalmic procedures in the minor procedure room.