Optometric Assistant Part Time

Visionworks • New York, NY

9h • $18 - $27 • Onsite

About The Position

The Clinical Specialist/Optometric Assistant helps provide a positive patient experience by preparing patients for onsite and remote examinations, completing preliminary diagnostic tests, and explaining the examination process. The role serves as a liaison between patients and optometrists and supports the initial stages of the patient journey.

The position performs patient registration, collects and records medical history and ocular health information in the electronic medical record (EMR), assists doctors with patient care and examinations, and supports remote examinations through testing and video conferencing. The role also coordinates patient flow, appointments, insurance preauthorization, contact lens support, and transitions patients to retail associates after examinations.

The associate works inside a store and may travel between locations to meet business needs. The job requires use of computers, tablets, and pre-testing instruments; frequent interaction with patients and team members; and physical activities including standing, sitting, reaching, and lifting or moving items up to 20 pounds. Associates must follow HIPAA and company data-security requirements. Training is provided, and required clinical certifications must be completed.

Requirements

• One year of related experience.
• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent related job experience.
• Medical office or business professionalism.
• Excellent customer service and clear, effective communication skills.
• Ability to interact, coordinate, and collaborate promptly with patients and team members.
• Strong attention to detail and organization.
• Ability to work under stress, interruptions, and deadlines; multitask; and solve problems effectively.
• Ability to follow procedures and instructions and read English.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret insurance forms.
• Ability to operate electronic software platforms and enter data efficiently and accurately.
• Ability to work changing schedules and travel between stores.
• Ability to use computers, electronic tablets, and pre-testing instruments effectively.
• Physical ability to perform the stated duties, including frequently lifting or moving up to 20 pounds and reaching above shoulder level continuously.
• Ability to comply with HIPAA and company privacy and security requirements.

Nice To Haves

• Optical or healthcare background preferred.

Responsibilities

• Register patients and gather and enter pertinent patient information, including medical history and ocular health data, into the EMR.
• Assist the onsite doctor with patient care and eye examinations.
• Explain preliminary testing to patients, administer tests, and accurately document results in the EMR.
• For remote appointments, perform pre-testing and specialty testing, document results, initiate video conferencing with remote technicians and doctors, and assist with additional testing.
• After examinations, convey the doctor's recommendations to a retail associate and transition the patient to that associate.
• Understand MVC plans and explain plan benefits to patients.
• Preauthorize insurance according to standard operating procedures.
• Work with retail associates to schedule appointments and manage exam books according to company guidelines, including contacting patients who do not attend or cancel appointments.
• Maintain patient flow to support doctor effectiveness.
• Answer patients' clinical questions in person and by telephone, triage ocular emergencies, and schedule annual eye exams.
• Maintain complete and accurate patient records according to company standards.
• Instruct patients in contact lens insertion, removal, cleaning, care, and proper handling.
• Place diagnostic contact lens orders for patients and stock, notify patients when lenses are available, maintain working knowledge of contact lens brands and parameters, and accurately pull requested trial lenses.
• Maintain doctor equipment and clinical supplies, keep the patient environment clean and healthy, and ensure equipment is covered nightly.
• Participate in specialized training and complete required clinical certifications.
• Work flexible schedules and travel to other locations as needed to meet changing business demands.
• Comply with HIPAA requirements and company privacy and security guidelines.
• Complete additional essential responsibilities as assigned in response to changing business needs.

Benefits

• Competitive pay and benefits are noted for union positions; specific terms are set forth in the collective bargaining agreement.
• Incentive pay, wage upgrades, and overtime opportunities are available.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED