Ophthalmic Technician, Certified

Good Shepherd Health Care•Hermiston, OR

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Ophthalmology Technician provides comprehensive clinical and administrative support to ophthalmologists and optometrists in delivering specialized eye care services. This role encompasses direct patient care activities including ophthalmic testing, visual assessments, and patient education; clinical documentation and electronic health record management specific to ophthalmology; coordination of referrals and prior authorizations for eye care services; and administrative functions essential to ophthalmology clinic operations. The Ophthalmology Technician works under the supervision and guidance of the Supervisor or Practice Manager, collaborating as part of an integrated care team to ensure efficient clinic workflow and optimal patient outcomes.

Requirements

High school graduate or equivalent
JCAHPO Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT)
Current BLS certification
Current CPR certification
The ability to work with a culturally diverse population.
Knowledge in computers, phones, and other office equipment.
Knowledge in ophthalmic clinical equipment including but not limited to: tonometry equipment, visual field analyzers, autorefractors, lensometers, keratometers, optical coherence tomography (OCT), fundus cameras, slit lamps, and various specialized ophthalmic testing devices.
Knowledge of basic electrical and mechanical principles related to ophthalmic equipment.

Nice To Haves

Completion of Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT) training program
Bilingual and/or English Spanish speaking.
Minimum of one-year experience in office-based ophthalmology practice.

Responsibilities

Room patients and collect pertinent ophthalmic, medical, and family history including current medications, previous eye surgeries, and chief complaint for provider review
Perform comprehensive eye testing including measurement of visual acuity, visual fields, extraocular motions, intraocular pressure by applanation tonometry, pinhole acuity, pupil measurements and testing, and refraction as necessary
Prepare exam rooms with necessary ophthalmic supplies and instruments; assist providers during examinations and procedures; ensure proper cleaning and sterilization of all ophthalmic equipment and diagnostic lenses
Instill ophthalmic medications and drops as directed by providers per established protocols
Provide patient education and instruction regarding medications, tests, procedures, and surgical interventions as directed by healthcare providers
Assists in Surgical Services Ophthalmology procedures
Function as a scrub person during operative and other invasive procedures by: assembling supplies and equipment required for the procedure; preparing and organizing sterile supplies and instruments for the procedure; performing accounting procedures in concert with the RN circulator; assisting with placement of sterile drapes; providing instruments and supplies to the surgical team during the procedure; maintaining an organized sterile field; ensuring sterility of the field and taking corrective actions as needed; and Preparing sterile dressings.
Clean and prepare surgical instruments for processing and transporting them to the decontamination areas.
Assist with post-procedure cleaning of the operative or other invasive procedure room and preparation of room for subsequent patients.
Participate in ongoing educational and competency verification activities applicable to scrub person activities.
Maintain privacy and confidentiality of individuals and health information.
Independently perform intraocular pressure testing, visual field testing, pachymetry, keratometry, ocular biometry, ocular ultrasounds, fundus photography, visual acuity assessments, and other CLIA-waived ophthalmic tests as ordered.
Accurately document visual assessments, intraocular pressure readings, patient histories, test results, and clinical findings in the electronic medical record system specific to ophthalmology care
Process and input prescription refill requests for ophthalmic medications into electronic records and route to appropriate providers for approval
Process all associated coding, documentation, charting, and referrals specific to ophthalmic procedures and diagnoses
Respond to incoming calls and messages from patients regarding ophthalmic questions, appointment scheduling, and post-procedure inquiries
Coordinate with other healthcare providers, insurance companies, and pharmacies regarding eye care services and insurance coverage issues
Collaborate with referral coordinator to identify authorization requirements and obtain prior approvals for ophthalmic procedures, surgeries, and specialized testing as directed
Maintain adequate inventory of ophthalmic supplies, diagnostic equipment, and specialized instruments in examination rooms and central supply areas
Perform routine maintenance and calibration of ophthalmic testing equipment; coordinate with biomedical services for equipment repairs and updates
Support reception duties including appointment scheduling, chart preparation, and phone coverage as needed
Maintain current ophthalmic procedure guidelines and protocols to assist other staff members
The employee supports the hospital mission, vision, values, policies, and procedures. Participates in required education for DNV programs as applicable to position. Performs other related duties as assigned by Practice Manager, Supervisor or Director.