Optometric Assistant

Visionworks•Cicero, NY

3d•$17 - $26•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, explaining the process, and serving as a liaison between patients and Optometrists. The role supports the initial stages of the patient journey, maintains patient flow, and helps doctors work effectively. Training is provided, and the position requires flexibility to work changing schedules and travel to other locations as business needs require. The position is based inside a store location and involves patient registration, clinical testing and documentation, assisting with remote examinations, contact lens support, appointment scheduling, insurance preauthorization, and maintaining clinical equipment and supplies. Associates must comply with HIPAA and company privacy and security requirements. The role is full-time, with a listed pay range of $17 to $25.50 per hour; incentive pay, wage upgrades, and overtime opportunities may also be available.

Requirements

One year of related experience.
High school diploma, GED, or equivalent related job experience.
Medical office or business professionalism.
Excellent customer service skills and a patient-advocate approach.
Ability to initiate interaction, coordinate, and collaborate with patients and team members.
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
Clear and effective communication with associates and patients.
Ability to work under stress, interruptions, and deadlines.
Energetic, self-motivated, and collaborative approach.
Problem-solving ability and ability to multitask.
Empathy in all interactions.
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret insurance forms; follow procedures and instructions; and read English.
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.
Ability to reach above shoulder continuously; sit, stand, handle, feel, pick or pinch, talk, and hear; occasionally walk and reach with hands and arms; and frequently lift or move up to 20 pounds.
Ability to perform the described physical functions, with reasonable accommodations where applicable.
Compliance with HIPAA and company data-security requirements.

Nice To Haves

Optical or healthcare background preferred.

Responsibilities

Register patients and gather and submit pertinent information, including medical history and ocular health data, in the electronic medical record (EMR).
Assist the onsite doctor with patient care and eye examinations; explain preliminary testing, administer tests, and accurately document results in the EMR.
Support patients with remote appointments by performing and documenting pre-testing and specialty testing, initiating video conferences with remote technicians and doctors, and assisting with additional testing.
After examinations, transition patients to retail associates and communicate the doctor's recommendations.
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 miss 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 on contact lens insertion, removal, cleaning, care, and handling.
Place diagnostic contact lens orders for patients and stock, notify patients when lenses are available, and pull requested trial lenses accurately.
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 to meet changing business demands, including travel between locations.
Comply with HIPAA requirements and company privacy and security guidelines.
Complete additional essential responsibilities as assigned to meet changing business needs.